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THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 



BY THE SAME AUTHOR 

THE COMPLETE CARDENER 

ROCK GARDENING FOR 
AMATEURS 

THE GARDEN AT HOME 

THE IDEAL GARDEN 

GARDEN FLOWERS AS THEY 
GROW 

GARDEN WORK FOR EVERY 
DAY 

GARDENING DIFFICULTIES 
SOLVED 

GARDEN PLANNING AND 
PLANTING 

LITTLE GARDENS, HOW TO 
MAKE THE MOST OF THEM 

POCKET GARDENER 

INDOOR GARDENING 

SWEET PEAS AND HOW TO 
GROW THEM 

H. H. THOMAS & WALTER E AS LEA 
THE ROSE BOOK 

CASS ELL <&» CO., LTD 
London, New Vork, Toronto &' Melbourne 



/ 




SHIRLEY POPPIES 



THE BOOK OF 

^ Hardy Flowers 

A simple and complete descriptive ^uide to the culti- 
vation in gardens of the trees and shrubs, perennial 
and annual flowers, that are hardy, or are suitable for 
plantin;^ out-of-doors in summer in temperate countries. 



EDITED BY 

H: H. THOMAS 

Author of "The Ideal Garden," "The Complete Gardener," etc. 



Beautifully Illustrated with Thirty-two 
Direct Color Photographs by 

H. Essenhigh Corke 

and Sixty-four half- 
tone Plates 



FUNK & WAGNALLS COMPANY 
New York 

CASSELL & COMPANY, Limited 
London 

1915 






cm 

FubUahot 
OCT 33 I3I» 



\a 



PREFACE 

The " Book of Hardy Flowers " is an attempt to provide the 
garden lover, in as simple and non-technical a manner as possible, 
with a work of reference to which he may turn for essential 
information concerning the flowers, trees, and shrubs that are 
suitable for growing in these islands and in other countries 
or districts where similar climatic conditions prevail. Herba- 
ceous perennials (those that lose their leaves and stems each 
autumn but start into fresh growth in spring) and annuals 
(those that perish after having blossomed) are grown more 
extensively than other kinds, and are given special attention 
in the following pages. Full reference, however, is made to 
plants that are indispensable in summer gardening though 
needing protection from frost in winter. 

Although, for the sake of convenience and ready reference, 
the book is arranged in alphabetical order of botanical names, 
the popular names, if existing and of sufficient interest, are given 
also, and further to simplify reference an index of these is 
published at the end of the work. 

It is often of value in gardening to know of the country 
in which a plant grows wild, for an acquaintance with the con- 
ditions in its native habitat may help towards its successful 
cultivation, more especially in the matters of providing an 
aspect and position suited to its needs. For this reason the 
country or place of origin of the various plants is stated. 

The descriptions have been written with the view of giving 
not only the colour of the flowers, but the height of the plants 



vi PREFACE 

and the season at which they are seen in full beauty If no 
time of blossoming is mentioned, it may be taken for granted 
that the flowers open in summer. 

In the notes dealing with the propagation of trees and shrubs 
it will be noticed that the chief methods practised are sowing 
seeds, taking cuttings, grafting, budding, and layering. As in 
all cases the seasons for carrying out these " operations " are 
not mentioned, it may be well to give the following information. 
Theoretically, it is best to sow seeds as soon as they are ripe, 
though in practice this work is often deferred until spring, 
when, owing to increasing warmth, germination takes place more 
quickly. Some seeds are notoriously slow in germinating, as, 
for example, those of certain trees, shrubs, and alpines, and 
it is necessary to sow these immediately they have matured. 
The seeds of Oaks, Chestnuts, and a few other trees lose their 
vitality very quickly if allowed to become dry ; therefore, if 
not sown as soon as ripe, they ought to be stored in moist sand. 
Cuttings of hardy shrubs are inserted in sandy soil in a closed 
frame in July or out-of-doors in early autumn. Grafting is 
carried out in March, budding in July, and layering in March 
or late in summer, the layered branches being left undisturbed 
for at least eighteen months. 

The illustrations are a feature of the book, and altogether 
show some two hundred different shrubs and flowers ; thus it 
may be hoped that they will assist the reader in the identification 
of those with which he is not familiar, 

I have to acknowledge the valued assistance of several con- 
tributors in the preparation of the " Book of Hardy Flowers," 
and particularly of Mr. W. DalUmore, Mr. Thomas Smith and 
Mr. W. Truelove u tt -p 



LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS 



COLOURED PLATES 



Shirley Poppies ..... 

Anchusa ....... 

Alpine Auricula ..... 

Border of Thrift and Tufted Pansies . 
Low Wall Planted with Spring Flowers 

BOCCONIA CORDATA (PlUME PoPPY) 

Border of Clarkia and other Annuals 

Campanula Portenschlagiana (Bellflower) 

Sweet William, Torch Lily and Juniper 

White Pinks as an Edging 

Border Chrysanthemums 

Rockery Mound 

Tulip Inglescombe Pink . 

Dianthus Spencer Bickham (Alpine Pink) 

Delphinium (Perennial Larkspur) 

Pinks in a Flagged Path 

LiLiuM pardalinum (Panther Lily) 

Hollyhock Palling Belle 

Lychnis chalcedonica 

Primula Unique 

Flag Irises and Tulips . 

Oenothera speciosa (Evening Primrose) 

Lychnis Viscaria splendens plena . 



Frontispiece 

FACING PAGE 

6 

22 
38 

54' 

66 

78 

84 

92 

98 

no 

118 

132 

150 
164 
172 
180 
214 
222 
230 

234 
242 
262 



Vlll 



LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS 



Phlox Vivid . 
Pentstemon heterophyllus 
Phlox G. A. StrShlein . 
Primula saxatilis . 
Rock Garden in June 
Rhododendron purpureum elegans 
Salvia splendens (Scarlet Sage) 
Saxifraga Clibrani 
Silene pendula . . . . 



FACING PAGE 
292 

306 

322 

370 
390 
402 
418 



BLACK-AND-WHITE PLATES 



FACING PAGE 

Abies lasiocarpa (Silver Fir) ...... 2 

Acanthus mollis (Bear's Breech) ...... id 

Achillea filipendulina (Yellow Milfoil) , . . .10 

Achillea Perry's White (White Milfoil) . . . .10 

ACROCLINIUM ROSEUM (FaIRY ImMORTELLE) . . . . . lO 

Acantholimon venustum (Prickly Thrift) . . . -14 

Androsace lanuginosa (Rock Jasmine) . . . . -14 

Amaryllis Belladonna (Belladonna Lily) . . . .18 

Anemone sylvestris (Snowdrop Windflower) . . .18 

Anthemis tinctoria (Chamomile) . . . .18 

Aquilegia glandulosa (Columbine) . . . . . .18 

Anemone apennina (Apennine Anemone) . . . z6 

Anemone nemorosa flore pleno (Double Wood Anemone) . 26 
Anthemis Montana (Chamomile) ...... 26 

Arenaria balearica (Balearic Sandwort) .26 

An Ideal Rock Garden ........ 30 

AUBRIETIA in the RoCKERY ....... 34 

Anemone Pulsatilla (Pasque Flower) ..... 42 

Anomatheca cruenta ........ 42 

Begonia ........... 42 

Brachycome iberidifolia (Swan River Daisy) .... 42 

Bank planted with Thrift ....... 46 



LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS 



Arenaria laricifolia (Sandwort) 

HeLICHRYSUM BELLIDIOIDES (EVERLASTING) 

Hardy Border Flowers .... 
Water Lily Pool ..... 

CENTAUREA MONTANA (PERENNIAL CORNFLOWER) 
COLCHICUM AUTUMNALE (MeADOW SaFFRON) 

Convolvulus cneorum (Bindweed) . 
Crinum capense ..... 
Rock Garden in a Hollow 
Campanula Medium (Canterbury Bbll) . 
Chrysanthemums from Seed 
Chrysanthemum Parthenium . 
Crucianella stylosa (Crosswort) 
Cerastium tomentosum .... 
Cimicifuga racemosa .... 

ChOISYA tern ATA (MEXICAN ORANGE BlOSSOM) 

CisTUs ladaniferus (Rock Rose) 
Clematis Montana (Mountain Clematis) . 
Clematis Nellie Moser .... 
Cortaderia argentea .... 
Cyclamen repandum .... 

CupRESsus lawsoniana lutea (Golden Cypress) 

KOCHIA TRICHOPHYLLA (SuMMER CyPRESS) . 

Edraianthus pumilio .... 
Erodium trichomanaefolium . 
Delphinium (Perennial Larkspur) . 
Delphinium (Annual Larkspur) 
Dianthus caesius (Cheddar Pink) . 
Dianthus deltoides (Maiden Pink) 
Dianthus (Pinks) in Dry Wall 
Campanula Moerheimi (Bellflower) 
Daboecia polifolia (Irish Heath) . 
Daphne cneorum ..... 
Dodecatheon media (American Cowslip) . 
Echinops Ritro (Globe Thistle) 
Eremurus robustus (King's Spear) 
Fabiana imbricata 



IX 

FACING FAGE 
50 
50 
58 
62 
70 
70 
70 
70 

74 
82 
82 
82 
82 
94 
94 
102 

106 
114 
114 
114 
114 
122 
126 
140 
140 
146 
154 
154 
154 
154 
158 
158 
158 
158 
166 
166 
166 



LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS 



FuNKiA (Plantain Lily) .... 
Rose Blush Rambler .... 
Rhododendron Broughtoni aureum 
Gentiana acaulis (Gentianella) 
Gentiana septemfida (Gentian) 
Geranium (Crane's Bill) 
Hydrangea hortensis .... 
Gentiana lutea (Yellow Gentian) 
Galega Hartlandi (Goat's Rue) 
Grass Steps in the Pleasure Grounds . 
Gypsophila repens rosea 
ICniphofia caulescens (Torch Lily) 
Habenaria (Hardy Orchid) 
Hemerocallis fulva (Day Lily) 
Heracleum giganteum .... 

HiERACIUM (HaWKWEED) .... 
HeSPERIS MATRONALIS FLORE PLENO (RoCKET) 

Gilia tricolor ..... 

Impatiens hybrida (Balsam) 
Iris stylosa (Algerian Iris) 
Jasione Jankae (Sheep's Bit Scabious) . 
Hardy Perennial Edging Plants . 
Leontopodium macranthum (Edelweiss) 
LiNUM perenne (Blue Flax) . 
Lupin us arboreus (Tree Lupin) 
Lysimachia clethroides .... 
OxALis enneaphylla (Wood Sorrel) 
Leucothoe Catesbaei .... 
Linum flavum (Yellow Flax) 
Lithospermum intermedium (Gromwell) . 
Polygonum lanigerum .... 
Lilium croceum (Orange Lily) 
LiLiUM Martagon (Martagon Lily) . 
Lilium longiflorum (White Trumpet Lily) 
Lilium testaceum (Nankeen Lily) . 
Primula littoniana .... 

Saponaria ocymoides (Soapwort) 



LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS 



XI 



Magnolia soulangeana (Lily Tree) 
Meconopsis aculeata (Himalayan Poppy) 

MiMULUS CARDINALIS (MoNKEY MuSK) 

Narcissus Johnstoni, Queen of Spain 

Mesembryanthemum (Ice Plant) 

Mesembryanthemum crassulaceum 

Nephrodium Filix-mas (Male Fern) 

Nymphaea (Water Lily) 

Magnolia conspicua (Yulan) . 

Wistaria Sinensis . 

Narcissus Lady of the Snows 

Nemesia strumosa . 

Nepeta Mussini 

Noccaea alpina 

Olearia stellulata (New Zealand Daisy Bush) 

Ononis fruticosa (Rest Harrow) 

Onopordon acanthium (Cotton Thistle) . 

Opuntia (Prickly Pear) ..... 

Orchis foliosa (Madeira Orchis) 

Hardy Herbaceous Flowers in a Formal Garden. 

Flower Borders in an Irish Garden 

Pentstemon Scouleri, the Beautiful Lilac-coloured 

Papaver nudicaule (Iceland Poppy) 

Pennisetum longistylum 

Philadelphus coronarius (Mock Orange) 

Pyrethrum Pink Pearl 

Picea pungens glauca (Spruce Fir) 

Pratia angulata 

Primula bulleyana 

Primula frondosa 

Primula Sikkimensis 

Olearia macrodonta 

Ranunculus Flowers 

Rehmannia angulata 

Rodgersia podophylla 

rubus biflorus 

Rhododendron Mrs. T. Agnew 



FACING PAGE 
274 

274 

274 

274 

278 

278 



278 

278 

282 

282 

286 

286 

286 

286 

300 '•^ 

310 

310 

310 

318 
326 

330 
330 
330 
330 

334 

348 

348 

348 

348 

364 .. 

374 

374 

374 

374 

378 



Xll 



LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS 



Rose Gloire de Dijon 

Roses and Michaelmas Daisies 

RUBUS deliciosus 

Rudbeckia purpurea 

Rose Duchess of Wellington 

Rose Francois CoppSe 

Rose May Miller . 

Rose Mrs. Alfred Tate . 

Saxifraga burseriana 

SCOLOPENDRIUM (HaRT'S ToNGUK FeRN) 

Sedum spectabile (Japanese Stonecrop) 

Spiraea decumbens 

Salvia globosa 

Salvia patens 

Saxifraga longifolia 

Saxifraga Wallacei 

Saxifraga lingulata 

Shortia galacifolia 

SiSYRINCHIUM striatum 

Spiraea japonica 

SCILLA HISPANICA 

Silene pendula 

Spiraea Aruncus 

Spiraea Ceres 

Schizocodon soldanblloidbs 

Sedum caeruleum 

Silene alpestris 

Tulips in the Flower Garden 

Viburnum Mariesi 

Viola cucullata 

Vkrbascum densiflorum . 

Yucca filamentosa . 

Yucca oloriosa 



THE 
BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 



Abelia. — The Abelias are highly decorative shrubs belonging 
to the Honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae). They are not thoroughly 
hardy, but may be grown in the open ground in the mildest parts 
of the country and against walls in the Midlands ; in northern gardens 
the protection of a cool greenhouse is necessary. Propagation is 
easily effected by means of cuttings of young shoots taken during 
summer and inserted in pots of sandy soil in a closed, warm frame. 
Light, but rich loamy soil forms a suitable rooting medium, and 
no regular pruning, other than the removal of the old fiower-heads, 
is required. Abelia grandiflora is a hybrid plant with evergreen 
leaves and white rose-flushed flowers produced in clusters from the 
ends of the branches in summer ; floribunda, a handsome evergreen 
shrub, with long tubular red flowers, in April, native of Mexico ; 
serrata, a vigorous shrub from Japan bearing red flowers in April ; 
and triflora, a tall-growing sort from the temperate Himalaya, 
with white flowers in summer, are all desirable. Abelia flori- 
bunda is the most delicate shrub, and must be given a sunny 
position against a wall if it is tried out-of-doors. 

Abies {Silver Fir). — This group belongs to the cone-bearing trees 
(Natural Order Coniferae), and the numerous kinds are widely dis- 
tributed through Europe, the Himalaya, Siberia, Japan, and North 
America. They are known collectively as Firs, or Silver Firs, and 
may be distinguished from the Spruces or Spruce Firs by several 
well-marked characters. In most cases the evergreen leaves are 
flattened, with blunt or notched ends, and are arranged in distinct 
rows on either side of the branches ; in only one or two kinds do 
they surround the branches. It is usual to find two silvery lines 
on the lower surface. The cones, however, offer the chief distin- 
guishing points from their close allies the Spruces (Picea), for they 
are borne in an upright position upon the branches and break up as 
soon as the seeds are mature. The cones of the Spruces, on the 

B 



2 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

other hand, are pendulous, and do not break up when the seeds 
are ripe. 

Although they are usually grown in this country as ornamental 
trees, many of the Abies produce valuable timber in their native 
habitats, and one kind, Abies pectinata, the common Silver Fir of 
Europe, is used for forest planting in the British Isles ; its timber 
is white, easily worked, and often called White Deal, while the tree 
is particularly useful for shady places. They are excellent trees for 
country gardens, where the atmosphere is free from sulphurous and 
other noxious fumes, but are unsuitable for town planting. The 
cultural requirements embrace the suitable working of the ground 
before planting, shallow planting, i.e. placing the upper roots about 
half an inch below the surface, and the removal of dead inside 
shoots as well as any of the lower branches that may die or 
become unsightly. Propagation should be by seeds sown under 
glass in January or out-of-doors in March, and plants raised by 
other means must be looked upon with suspicion. Light or heavy 
loam and sandy peat, providing they are naturally moist but well 
drained, are alike suitable soils. 

The most ornamental kinds are : amabilis, a grey-leaved tree 
from British Columbia, Oregon, etc. ; brachyphylla, a tall, dark- 
leaved tree of symmetrical outline, native of Japan ; cephalonica, 
the Grecian Fir, grows into a very large tree ; concolor, lasiocarpa, 
and lowiana are Western North American trees of highly decora- 
tive character, known collectively as White Firs ; firma is a dark- 
leaved tree from Japan, with long deeply notched foliage ; magnifica, 
native of California, forms a handsome specimen ; while nobilis, a 
beautiful glaucous-leaved tree, often suffers from a disfiguring dis- 
ease in the warmer parts of the British Isles. Other good kinds are : 
Numidica, Pinsapo, and Veitchii. 

Abronia {Sand Verbena). — A small family of half-hardy annuals 
and perennials, natives of California, belonging to the Natural Order 
Nyctaginaceae. They bear pretty Verbena-like flowers during sum- 
mer and autumn. The plants are of trailing habit, thrive best in 
light sandy soil and a sunny position, and are suitable for the rockery 
or front of a flower border. Sow the seeds in a cold frame in autumn, 
or in a warm greenhouse in February and early March. Usually 
they are slow to germinate, and should be soaked in warm water 
for twelve hours previous to sowing. Plant out the young seedlings 
towards the end of May where they are to flower. Unless the peren- 
nials are in a sheltered position some protection must be afforded 
in winter. The most useful sorts are : arenaria, lemon-yellow, 12 




ONE OF THE SILVER FIRS (ABIES LASIOCARPA) 



ABUTILON 



inches, half-hardy perennial ; fragrans, white, i8 inches, half-hardy 
perennial ; umbellata, rose-coloured, 12 inches, half-hardy annual. 

Abutilon {Indian Mallow).— A group of decorative plants belong- 
ing to the Mallow family (Malvaceae), composed of numerous species 
or wild types, and many varieties raised by florists. They are found 
in tropical Asia, Africa, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Chili, and other 
countries. One kind, Abutilon vitifolium, is hardy in the milder 
parts of the British Isles ; but the majority require the shelter of 
a greenhouse. They may be grown in pots or borders, and thrive 
in a compost of 4 parts fibrous loam, i part peat or leaf-mould, and 
I part coarse sand. When 
well rooted, manure water 
must be given once or twice 
a week. An annual prun- 
ing is necessary, February 
being a good time for the 
work. Cut all secondary 
branches back to within a 
few buds of the base of 
the previous year's growth. 
Any necessary repotting 
may be conducted when 
the new shoots are about 
half an inch long. In 
summer they are very use- 
ful for grouping in beds 
and borders out-of-doors, 
and thrive in light, rich soil. 
They are put in the open 

early in June and hfted about the end of September ; if only 
small plants are required, insert a few pots of cuttings in the 
greenhouse during August. Store the old plants in a greenhouse 
during winter, and in spring, when growth is about to commence, 
prune the young shoots fairly hard, and repot when new shoots 
form. Some of them may be taken off and inserted as cuttings 
if further plants are wanted. Abutilons vary from 2 to 6 feet or 
even more in height, according to their age and the amount of 
pruning annually given in spring. Those having attractive foliage 
are : Savitzii, green and white ; Thompsoni, mottled freely with 
yellow ; Megapotamicum variegatum, long slender shoots, rather 
small leaves, mottled with yellow and green ; Souvenir de Bonn, 
large green leaves, edged with white. Free-flowering Abutilons 




FLOWERS OF ABUTILON 



4 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

are Golden Fleece, yellow ; Boule de Neige, white ; Firefly, red ; 
and Clochette, rosy-pink. Abutilon vitifolium, native of Chili, forms 
a bush from 8 to 12 feet high, and bears violet-blue flowers in 
summer. Abutilons may be readily raised from seeds sown in a 
heated greenhouse during February and March. 

Acacia (False). — {See Robinia.) 

Acacia {Wattle). — The Acacias belong to the Pea family (Natural 
Order Leguminosae), and consist largely of timber trees, native of 
Australia, though comprising also numerous scrubby trees or bushes 
which are found in the arid regions of Arabia, East and South 
Africa, and other countries. The timber of several of the Australian 
kinds is valuable for furniture and other purposes, and the bark is 
rich in tannin. Gum, including Gum Arabic and Gum Senegal, is 
obtained from several of the African and Asiatic species. The flowers 
of many Australian sorts are very showy, and as several are adapted 
for growing in pots and blossom when small, they are highly desirable 
for the greenhouse. Some kinds thrive quite well and form good- 
sized trees in the open in the milder parts of Cornwall and Ireland, 
and in other places it is only necessary to protect them from frost. 
Large quantities of branches of one or two kinds are forced in the 
south of France and sent to this country during spring under the 
name Mimosa. 

Propagation is effected by means of cuttings of young shoots 
dibbled into pots of sandy soil composed of 2 parts loam, 2 parts 
peat, and i part silver sand. The cuttings may be inserted during 
spring or early summer. Those required for pots must be grown in 
a warm, moist greenhouse and be stopped several times to induce a 
bushy habit. A compost made up of equal parts of loam and peat 
with a fair proportion of sand is necessary. It is often wise to feed 
the plants with manure water rather than repot frequently after 
they have reached the flowering size. They ought not to be 
allowed to bloom before the end of the second year. After flower- 
ing, cut the branches back, place the plants in a warm and moist 
greenhouse until new shoots appear, then repot if necessary. As 
soon as the roots are working into the new soil well, admit plenty 
of air, and about mid-June stand the plants out-of-doors in full sun, 
where they may remain until September. Do not allow them to 
become dry at the roots at any time. Throughout winter the plants 
may be grown in an ordinary dwelling-room, if desired. Plants grown 
in borders under glass should be pruned fairly hard after flowering. 
The following species are suitable for pots or a border under glass : 
armata and its variety angustifolia, Baileyana, cultriformis, Drum- 



ACAENA 5 

mondii, leprosa, myrtifolia, platyptera, Riceana, pulchella, and verti- 
cillata. Acacia dealbata is only suitable for planting in a border. 

Acaena {New Zealand Bur or Burwood).—Dy/a.Ti creeping or 
trailing plants, with evergreen foliage belonging to the Rose family 
(Rosaceae). They are easily grown in hght soil, and are chiefly 
used in the rockery, in the crevices of stone paving and rough steps, 
or as an edging to a border of choice alpine plants. Acaenas are 
readily propagated by seeds sown in spring or summer, by division 
of the clumps from October to March, and by cuttings inserted in a 
cold frame from May to July. The dainty foliage, and the spine-like 
heads of fruits rather than the tiny flowers, are the chief attractions 
of Acaena. The following are the best : inermis, foliage bronze- 
green, 6 inches ; microphylla, close-growing bronze-green foliage, 
freely interspersed in autumn with spiny crimson heads of fruits, 
2 to 3 inches ; Novae-Zealandiae, dwarf-spreading growth, metallic- 
bronze foliage, crimson fruits, 3 inches ; argentea, metallic-green 
foliage, quaint spikelets or heads of fruits, 4 to 6 inches. All are 
natives of New Zealand except argentea, which comes from Chili. 

Acalypha. — As they are natives of warm countries, the Acalyphas 
must be grown in a heated greenhouse in winter, but during summer, 
from early June until September, they may be planted in beds and 
borders out of doors, being especially valuable for sub-tropical bedding, 
in which plants with striking foliage are chiefly used. They belong to 
the Spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). The undermentioned kinds have 
inconspicuous flowers, borne on spikes which develop in the axils 
of the leaves during summer ; their value lies in the handsome highly 
coloured leaves, which are large and beautifully variegated. Increase 
is by cuttings inserted during August or in spring. The plants may 
be " grown on " for several years : when in large pots or tubs they are 
invaluable for sunny but sheltered positions in the garden. If it is 
found necessary to limit the size of the plants slight pruning is practised 
in autumn and fairly hard pruning in early March. As a potting soil 
use equal parts loam, leaf-mould, and peat, with coarse sand. The 
best Acalyphas for sub-tropicalgardening are: Macafeeana, red, blotched 
bronze-crimson, Fiji ; macrophylla, russet-brown, pale blotches ; mar- 
ginata, rich brown, margined rosy-carmine, India ; musaica, bronze- 
green, mottled with red and orange, Polynesia ; tricolor (or wilkesiana), 
copper-green, mottled with red and crimson, New Hebrides. The 
colour description refers to the leaves. The plants vary from i^ to 
6 feet or more, according to the method of pruning. When only 
small plants are wanted root sufficient cuttings annually in August 
and discard the old plants in autumn; 



6 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Acantholimon (Prickly Thrift). — A small family of dwarf-tufted 
evergreen plants belonging to the Natural Order Plantagineae, which 
includes the Common Thrift. They are natives of Asia Minor, and, 
growing only 3 to 6 in. in height, are suitable for the rockery or the 
front row of the flower border. Propagation is by seeds sown in a 
cold frame in spring, by cuttings inserted during August or September, 
also in a cold frame, and by division in March or early April, this 
being the best time to replant, though if the plants are happy it is 
better not to disturb them. Sandy loam is a suitable soil, and a sunny 
position should be chosen. The best kind and that usually grown 
is Acantholimon glumaceum (sometimes called Statice Ararati), which 
forms a close-growing cushion of deep green spiny foliage. The 
wiry flower stalks push up to a height of some 6 inches in summer, 
each bearing six or more rose-coloured flowers A inch across. A 
second kind is Acantholimon venustum, with rose-coloured flowers ; 
it is rather larger in every way than the preceding, but is a rarer 
plant. 

Acanthopanax. — This group belongs to the Aralia family 
(Araliaceae), and consists of trees and shrubs found in China and 
Japan. Three hardy kinds have been introduced, viz. ricinifolium, 
a timber tree with ornamental leaves, native of both countries ; sessi- 
liflorum, a rather uninteresting bush from China ; and spinosum, a 
Chinese and Japanese bush. The last-named may be distinguished 
by its five-lobed leaves ; its variety variegatum has pretty golden 
variegated leaves. They thrive in ordinary garden soil, and require 
no regular pruning. Propagation is by means of seed sown out-of- 
doors in early autumn. The variegated variety is increased by cut- 
tings taken in July or September. 

Acanthus {Bear's Breech). — Interesting hardy perennials belonging 
to the Natural Order Acanthaceae, and native of Southern Europe. 
The foliage is ornamental, being prettily divided, while from early 
July to October bold spikes of purple and white flowers are produced. 
Propagation is by division of the clumps in March, and by seeds sown 
in a greenhouse or frame from April to June. The plants will thrive 
in ordinary garden soil, except that which is heavy and ill-drained ; 
the position may be in full sun or half-shady. Acanthus are not 
among the plants one would recommend for a small border of choice 
herbaceous perennials, but they deserve inclusion in a large border, 
are very pretty in groups along the front of the shrubbery border, 
make an attractive bed for a lawn, and may be freely used in the 
wild gaiden. The most useful kinds are : longifolius, leaves 2 to 3 feet 
long, flower spikes 3 to 4 feet high ; mollis, prettily divided foliage. 




THE ITALIAN ALKANET (ANCHUSA ITALICA "OPAL") 



ACER 7 

3 feet ; var. latifolius, very useful for bedding, 5 feet, and spinosus, 
attractive spiny foliage, 2 to 3 feet. 

Acer (Maple). — Large-growing trees and bushes, members of the 
Natural Order Sapindaceae. They are commonly called Maples, and 
are distributed through Europe, the Himalaya, China, Japan, and 
North America, several being important timber trees, whilst the sap 
of the North American Acer saccharinum provides Maple sugar.- 
Two kinds. Pseudo-plat anus (the Sycamore) and platanoides (the 
Norway Maple), are grown in this country for the sake of their timber, 
wliich is used largely for the rollers of mangles and washing-machines ; 
whilst the wood of the Common Maple (campestre) is also of value. 
All the large-growing sorts are valuable for decorative planting, and 
may be Tised as isolated specimens, groups, or avenue trees. A group 
of dwarf kinds, known collectively as Japanese Maples, is composed 
of numerous varieties of Acer palmatum and japonicum. These 
varieties are attractive both by reason of their finely lobed leaves and 
the brilliant colouring of their foliage in spring and again in autumn. 
They are excellent for the outdoor garden, except in the coldest part> 
of the country, and are also useful for growing in pots for the green- 
house or conservatory in spring. 

The Acers thrive in almost any kind of well-drained soil, but prefer 
that of a loamy character. Most of them have broad, conspicuously 
lobed leaves, but a few have pinnate leaves. There are numerous 
kinds with variegated foliage which are popular for ornamental plant- 
ing. Seeds are usually used for the increase of species, whilst varieties 
are propagated by layering, budding, or grafting. Pruning should 
be limited to keeping the leaders clear of rivals and the removal of 
lower branches when necessary. 

The following are among the best : campestre, Europe, 20 to 
40 feet, and its vars. compactum and variegatum ; carpinifolium, 
Japan, 20 to 30 feet, distinct foliage ; circinatum, California, 8 to 
15 feet, leaves colour brilliantly in autumn ; dasycarpum (Silver 
Maple), Eastern North America, large tree, lower surface of leaves 
silvery ; japonicum, Japan, bush, showy leaves ; also vars. aureum, 
microphyllum, etc. ; macrophyllum, California, large tree, fine 
inflorescences ; negundo (Box Elder), United States, 40 feet, 
pinnate leaves ; the variety variegatum, with green and silver leaves, 
is a popular small tree. 

Acer palmatum, from Japan, is a bush with decorative leaves ; 
the following are beautiful varieties : crispum, roseo-marginatum, 
sanguineum, septemlobum, atropurpureum, elegans, dissectum, etc. 

Other kinds are : platanoides (Norway Maple), Europe, large tree ; 



s THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Pseudo-plat anus (Sycamore), Central Europe and Western Asia, large 
tree ; and its varieties, flavo-marginatum (Corstorphine Plane), golden 
variegated leaves, Prinz Handjer}', golden leaves ; purpureum, purple 
leaves. Acer rubrum (Red Maple), North America, is a large tree, 
red flowers, silvery bark ; Volxemi, from the Caucasus, is a vigorous 
tree with large leaves. 

Aceras anthropophora (Green Man Orchis). — This is one of the 
British terrestrial Orchids (Natural Order Orchideae) found growing 
wild in chalky meadow land in the south-eastern counties. This 
kind of soil must be introduced for its successful cultivation in the 
rockery or in the border devoted to the growing of rare and in- 
teresting treasures. Increase is by careful division of the tubers 
in autumn. The flowering season is June, when a spike of 
greenish flowers, hned or margined with red, lo to 12 inches high, 
appears. 

Achillea (Milfoil or Yarroif). — This is rather an important class 
of hardy perennials belonging to the Daisy family (Compositae), and 
chiefly native of Europe. They are easily grown, and thrive in 
most soils and in a sunny or half-shaded position. Several of the 
taller growing sorts are important border plants, while those of dwarf 
habit are valuable in the rock garden. Propagation is by di\nsion 
during mild weather from the end of October to March, when re- 
planting may also be done. Seeds may be sown during April or May 
in a cold frame or out-of-doors ; another method of increase is to 
insert some of the young gro\\-ths as cuttings in late spring when 
about 2 inches long. They root readily in a closed frame. The 
foliage of the Milfoils is distinctly ornamental, being more or less 
finely cut. The flowering season is from June until September. 
Several are very useful for supplying cut flowers for indoor decora- 
tion, notably Achillea Ptarmica The Pearl. 

The best border kinds are : fiiipenduhna (syn. Eupatorium), flat 
corymbs of golden-yellow flowers, 3 to 4 feet ; Millefolium roseum 
or Cerise Queen, rosy-crimson, 2j to 3 feet ; Ptarmica The Pearl, a 
double Sneezewort, pure white double flowers, 2 feet (Perry's variety 
has larger, double white flowers, and grows some 6 inches taller) ; 
sibirica (s\n. mongolica), white, i^ to 2 feet; decolorans (syn. ser- 
rata) flore pleno, white flowers, pretty serrated foliage, 2 feet. Use- 
ful kinds for the rock garden and front of flower borders are : Cla- 
vennae, white, silvery foliage, 6 inches ; rupestris, pure white, pleasing 
rich green cushion of evergreen leaves, 4 inches ; compacta (syn. 
sericea), white flowers, silvery rosettes of leaves, 6 inches, from the 
Orient ; tomentosa, a splendid plant with fern-hke foHage and rich 



ACONITUM 



9 



-Useful herbaceous plants 



golden-yellow flower heads, 9 to 12 inches ; umbellata, white flowers 
and silvery-white foliage, 6 inches. 

Aconite, Winter. — (See Eranthis.) 

Aconitum (Monkshood, Wolfs-bane). 
belonging to the Buttercup family 
(Ranunculaceae). The roots are poi- 
sonous. One kind (Aconitum Napel- 
lus) grows wild in the western counties 
and Wales. The Monkshoods thrive 
in ordinary garden soil 
in sunny or shaded posi- 
tions ; they are among 
the best perennials for a 
north border, while 
in the wild garden 
and shrubberj^' bor- 
ders the blue flowers 
are indispensable. 
Propagation is by 
seeds sown on a 
border out-of-doors 
from April to June, 
and by division of 
the roots during 
March. When 

thriving and flowering freely leave the plants undisturbed for some 
years. The flowering season extends from June to October. The 
best kinds are : Fischeri, clear blue, September to October, 3 feet ; 
japonicum, deep violet-blue, September and October, 3 to 4 feet ; 
Napellus (the Common Monkshood), indigo-blue, June to September, 

5 to 6 feet, in good soil ; var. album is white ; var. bicolor, blue 
and white ; and var. pyramidale, bluish-purple, July to September ; 
Hemsleyanum, a twining Chinese plant some 6 feet high, purple, 
July to September ; Wilsoni, violet, September to October, 5 to 

6 feet, China. 

Acorus {Sweet Flag or Myrtle Sedge). — For the sides of streams, 
ponds, and lakes this is an indispensable water plant (Natural Order 
Aroideae), but it is apt to increase rapidly, and unless checked will 
soon spoil other less vigorous ones. Propagate by division of the 
clumps from October to March, this also being the time for planting. 
There are two species : Calamus, wild in the Northern Hemisphere, 
with sword-shaped leaves about 3 feet high, and inconspicuous yellow 







ACHILLEA CLAVENNAE. A YARROW FOR THE 
ROCK GARDEN 



10 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

flowers borne, in summer, on a cylindrical spadix, 4 or 5 inches long 
(var. variegatus is a very desirable waterside plant, with gold-striped 
leaves) ; gramineus, a smaller plant than the preceding, with grass- 
like leaves, is native of Japan (var. variegatus forms pleasing tufts 
of green and white striped leaves). 

Acroclinium {Australian I mrnorielle) . — A dainty half-hardy annual 
with " everlasting " flowers, native of Australia ; it belongs to the 
Daisy family (Compositae). The only kind is Acroclinium roseum, 
native of South-West Australia. A warm, sunny border and 
rather light sandy soil suit it best. Sow the seeds in a cool 
greenhouse or frame towards the end of March ; or out-of-doors, the 
second half of April, where the plants are to flower. The best effect 
is obtained when the plants are only some 2 inches apart, so the seeds 
must be sown fairly thickly. The flowers are a pleasing rosy shade, 
and are borne singly on erect slender growths, about 12 inches high. 
The variety album has white flowers ; flore albo pleno and flore roseo 
pleno are sorts with double white and double rose-coloured flowers 
respectively. If required for winter decoration, gather the blooms 
when quite dry and fully expanded, tie them in small bunches, and 
hang up, flower-heads downwards, in an airy shed to dry. The 
flower-heads are some J inch across with conspicuous golden-yellow 
centre. 

Actaea [Bane-berry or Herb Christopher). — The Actaeas are herba- 
ceous plants, belonging to the Buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). 
They have elegant fern-like fohage and graceful racemes of feathery 
white flowers during June and July, followed in autumn by red, 
white, or black berries. Propagation is chiefly by division of the 
clumps in late autumn or March, which is also the best time for 
planting ; also by seeds sown from April to June in a cold frame. 
For preference, when planting choose a position which is not too 
hot and dry ; an ideal spot is a moist, half-shaded border con- 
taining plenty of decayed leaf-mould in which the roots can ramble. 
There are only two species : alba, white berries, 2 feet. North America ; 
spicata, black berries, 12 to 18 inches, Northern Hemisphere. Spicata 
rubra has scarlet berries. 

Actinidia Chinensis is a most interesting plant, member of the 
family or Natural Order Ternstroemiaceae. It is a native of China, 
and was introduced to England about fourteen years ago. A vigor- 
ous climber, it may be planted against a wall, trellis, pergola, or small 
tree, in deep loamy soil. Weak ends of branches should be removed 
in spring. Its principal attraction lies in the reddish-purple hairs 
which form a dense covering to the young leaves and branches. The 




»fef. 









YELLOW MILFOIL (.ACHILLEA 
FILIPENDULINA) 



DOUBLE WHITE MILFOIL (ACHILLEA 
PTARMICA). PERRY'S W^HITE 





BEARS BREECH (ACANTHUS 
MOLLIS) 



FAIRY IMMORTELLE (ACROCLINIUM 
ROSEUM) 



ADENOCARPUS DECORTICANS n 

yellow flowers are upwards of i inch across, and the fruits are edible. 
Cuttings will root if placed in light soil in a close frame during 
summer. Actinidia arguta, Kolomikta, and polygama are coarse- 
growing Japanese kinds. They do not require regular pruning. All 
are deciduous. 

Adam's Needle. — {See Yucca.) 
Adder's Tongue. — {See Ophioglossum.j 

Adenocarpus decorticans is a Spanish shrub belonging to the 
Pea family (Leguminosae). Its chief attraction centres in the golden 
Broom-like blossoms, which are borne in profusion in May. As it is 
rather tender, a sunny position — preferably in the rock garden or at 
the foot of a wall — should be provided, and better results may be 
expected by planting it in hght loam than in very rich soil. It forms 
a dense bush 2 feet or so high, and is usually increased by seeds in 
spring. No regular pruning is required. 

Adenophora {Gland Bellflower). — A group of border perennials 
allied to the Campanulas, from which they are distinguished by a 
gland or nectary surrounding the base of the style. They belong to 
the Bellflower family (Campanulaceae). The plants thrive in a light, 
rich, rather moist soil and a sunny position. Increase is by seeds 
sown as soon as ripe or during spring in a cold frame. March is the 
time to plant ; but so long as the plants continue to thrive and blossom, 
leave them alone ; few perennials suffer more from disturbance at 
the roots. Six of the best are : latifolia (syn. pereskiaefolia), blue, 
one to three drooping flowers on a stalk, July and August, i| feet, 
Siberia ; liliifolia, fragrant blue flowers, freely borne on a loose pyra- 
midal inflorescence, July and August, i foot, Europe ; polymorpha, 
large blue flowers, July and August, 2 feet, China ; Potanini, pale 
blue, bell-shaped blooms on slender spikes, July and August, ij to 
2 feet, Turkestan — there is a white variety of this kind ; stricta, 
with large blue flowers in July, grows 2 feet high, and is a native 
of Japan. 

Adiantum {Maidenhair Fern). — Only two of the large number 
of Adiantum, members of the Fern family (Filices), can be cultivated 
out-of-doors successfully in this country, and one of these, our native 
British Maidenhair (Adiantum Capillus- Veneris) is hardy only in the 
south and west unless the position is unusually warm and sheltered. 
The most suitable soil for Maidenhair Ferns is a mixture of loam, 
peat, and leaf-mould with some coarse sand. Increase is by division 
of the clumps in spring. Plant in shady nooks of the rockery or in 
a moist, shady border. Adiantum Capillus- Veneris is an evergreen 
Fern, growing some 6 to 9 inches in height ; it is widely distributed 



12 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

in the warmer temperate regions, including Britain ; pedatum, a 
Nortla American kind, is hardier, and thrives freely outside with the 
Hart's Tongues and Polypods. The elegantly branched and divided 
fronds attain from ij to 2^ feet in height. \Vlien the fronds die 
down in autumn, cover the roots for the winter with 2 or 3 inches of 
decayed leaves. 

Adiumla cirrhosa {Climbing Fumitory). — This is a climbing 
biennial from North America, suitable for trailing over a trellis, 
veranda, or arbour in a sunny position ; it belongs to the Poppy 
family (Papaveraceae). The plants thrive in ordinary light, well- 
drained garden soil. Sow the seeds from May to July where the 
plants are to blossom the following year. Under favourable condi- 
tions, self-sown seedlings germinate annually in autumn. The twin- 
ing growths attain a height of from 12 to 15 feet, having delicate 
green tripinnate foliage suggestive of a Maidenhair Fern. There are 
two forms, one with white, the other with rose-tinted flowers ; these 
are tubular, about \ inch long, usually in clusters of four together, 
and are at their best in June. 

Adonis {Pheasant's Eye ; Ox-eye; Flower of Adonis). — A group 
of annual and perennial plants, members of the Buttercup family 
(Ranunculaceae), flowering in spring and summer. The finest peren- 
nial species is Adonis amurensis, with rich yellow flowers, resembling 
a giant Buttercup, from February to April, Fern-like foliage, i foot, 
native of Manchuria ; this is a charming plant for a sheltered corner 
in the rock garden, or at the foot of a south-west wall or fence ; its 
double variety, flore pleno, is handsome. Other kinds are : pyrenaica, 
bright yellow, April to June, i foot, Pyrenees ; vernalis, clear yellow, 
March to May, 6 to 9 inches, Europe. They thrive in a mixture of 
loam and leaf-mould, and are increased by division in September 
and October. The plants bloom best when left undisturbed for some 
years. The annual kinds are : autumnalis (Red Chamomile), scarlet, 
July, I foot, Europe, etc. ; and aestivalis, crimson, June, i foot, 
Europe, Orient. Sow the seeds late in March or during April where 
the plants are to flower ; select a sunny or half-shaded border, where 
the soil is rather light and well drained. 

Aegle. — The best-known species of this group of plants, which 
belongs to the Rue family (Rutaceae), is Aegle sepiaria, a green-branched 
bush armed with strong formidable spines, and bearing three-parted 
deciduous leaves, large white flowers, and orange-like fruits ; it is a 
native of China and Japan, and may be grown as an isolated bush or 
in the shrubbery, in loamy soil, or in the south it might be employed 
for hedges. Cuttings root readily in summer in sandy soil in a close 



AESCULUS 13 

frame. A second species, Aegle marmelos, native of India, is some- 
times grown in hothouses. Its fruits, known as Bael fruits, are 
astringent, and used in cases of dysentery. Unless grown as a hedge 
plant, Aegle does not require pruning, except such as is necessary to 
keep the plants shapely when young. Hedges may be clipped any 
time during summer. 

Aesculus {Chestnut). — This group (Natural Order Sapindaceae) 
is composed of large- or small-growing deciduous trees and a few 
shrubs, all of which are of decorative value. It now includes all the 
trees which were at one time known as Pavia, there being no distinct 
dividing line between the various kinds. The most famiUar repre- 
sentative is the Horse Chestnut, a native of the mountains of Greece, 
and one of the most popular ornamental trees in European gardens. 
Other kinds occur in the Himalaya, China, and the United States. 
The timber is soft, light, and white in colour, its clean appearance 
making it popular for turnery, the backs of brushes, kitchen and 
dairy requisites, etc. All the Aesculus (or Chestnuts, as they are 
called in Europe, and Buckeyes in America) are easily grown in any 
fairly good soil, while the common kind thrives in the lightest ground. 
They may be planted almost anywhere from mid-Scotland south- 
wards, except in smoky towns, for which they are not adapted. Pro- 
pagation of the true species or wild types is by seeds, sown as soon 
as ripe, and of the varieties and hybrids by grafting in March, or 
budding in July. Pruning is necessary during the early years to 
encourage proper development and a shapely habit. Later it is 
confined to the removal of dead or injured branches. 

The following are the chief kinds : californica, a small wide-headed 
tree from California, which bears large inflorescences of white flowers 
in July ; carnea, well known as the Red-flowered Horse Chestnut ; it 
is of hybrid origin, and a very popular kind for lawn planting, the 
inflorescences of red flowers are very handsome ; the variety Briotii, 
however, is even better than the type. Flava is the Sweet Buckeye 
of North America, its chief charm lies in its yellow flowers ; glabra, 
the Ohio Buckeye, forms a medium-sized tree, and bears yellowish 
flowers. Hippocastanum, the Common Horse Chestnut, is one of the 
most beautiful and useful of all flowering trees, whether for planting 
in groups, as isolated specimens, or to form an avenue, its appearance 
is too well known to need description ; the variety flore pleno bears 
double flowers, and pyramidalis is of fastigiate habit. Indica, the 
Indian Horse Chestnut, is a native of the Western Himalaya ; it has 
handsome leaves, and the flowers, which appear in July, are similar 
to those of the Common Horse Chestnut. Parvifiora well deserves 



14 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

consideration by reason of its shrubby habit and late flowering ; it 
forms a dense bush 8 to 12 feet high, and produces fine panicles of white 
flowers in August ; chinensis and turbinata are two new Chinese species 
with handsome foliage ; they have not yet flowered in this country. 

Aethionema {Burnt Candytuft). — A small family of hardy peren- 
nials and annuals allied to the Wallflower, and belonging to the Wall- 
flower family (Cruciferae). They thrive in light, rather dry soils, and 
succeed best, as a rule, on a sunny rockery or along the front of the 
flower border. Sow seeds of the annual species in April where the 
plants are to flower, and of the perennials in a cold frame or out-of- 
doors from April to June. The latter are also propagated by cuttings 
inserted in a cold frame or under a handlight during late summer. 
The best perennials are : coridifolium (Lebanon Candytuft), with close 
terminal heads of rosy-pink flowers, June to August, i foot. Orient ; 
grandiflorum (Persian Candytuft), pink, summer, i foot, Persia ; 
persicum, pink, June to August, 9 inches, Persia ; pulchellum, purplish- 
pink, June to July, 6 inches, Armenia. The best annual kind is cappa- 
docicum, rose, June to July, 3 inches, Orient. 

African Lily. — (See Agapanthus.) 

African IVIarigold. — {See Tagetes.) 

Agapanthus [African Lily). — Though usually cultivated in pots 
and kept in a frame or cool greenhouse during winter, the Agapan- 
thus, which belongs to the Lily family (LiUaceae), may be grown out- 
doors in the south and west, also in many suburban gardens in the 
London district at the foot of a south wall, providing the roots are 
protected by a heap of ashes. Whichever method is practised, 
the African Lily and its numerous varieties are very desirable plants. 
In large pots or tubs they are especially attractive when in 
flower during August and September, and are then commonly used 
for placing on terraces, steps, etc. The best method of increase is 
by division of the clumps in March or early April. Loamy (turfy) 
soil, with the addition of leaf-mould and old decayed manure, forms 
a suitable compost for plants in pots ; but those out-of-doors must 
be in well-drained light loam. During summer the Agapanthus 
delights in an abundance of water and liquid manure ; in fact, in 
hot, dry weather it revels in water, and plants are often plunged in 
the ground by the side of a pond. Repotting is seldom desirable ; 
when necessary, it should be done in spring. The Agapanthus is a 
native of the Cape of Good Hope, and was first introduced to Britain 
in 1692. The varieties vary considerably in size of leaf and height 
of the flower spikes. The typical kind, umbellatus, has bright blue 
funnel-shaped flowers, borne in an umbel or cluster on a stalk 2 to 




A ROCK JASMINE (ANDROSACE LANUGINOSA) 




PRICKLY THRIFT ( ACANTHOLIMON VENUSTUM) 



AGATHAEA CAELESTIS 15 

3 feet high ; var. alba is similar, but with beautiful white blooms ; 
var. fiore pleno is double blue ; var. maximus is more vigorous, larger 
in all its parts, and a handsome plant ; var. minor is a dainty little 
kind, less than i foot in height. Mooreanus is dark blue, i^ feet, 
and var. variegatus has green and white-striped leaves. 

Agathaea caelestis (Blue Daisy). — This is a pretty South African 
plant, with blue, Daisy-like flowers, and a member of the great Daisy 
family (Compositae). Though really a greenhouse plant, it blooms freely 
for several months in summer, June to September, when planted in 
beds and warm borders out-of-doors. In one or two of the London 
parks the Blue Daisy is largely grown for summer bedding. The 
plants are bushy in habit, growing from i foot to i^ feet in height. 
Increase is by cuttings inserted during August in a frame or green- 
house. During winter, keep the plants on a shelf in a greenhouse, 
pot singly in 3|- or 4-inch pots in March, harden off by placing the 
plants in a cold frame the first week in May, and at the end of that 
month or early in June plant them outside in beds or borders. The 
Blue Daisy thrives in a rather light soil made up of sandy loam and 
leaf -mould. There is a variety in which the leaves are spotted or 
blotched with yellow. 

Agave {American or Mexican Aloe). — The Agaves are chiefly 
natives of Mexico, and belong to the Amaryllis family (Amaryllidaceae). 
They are striking plants for growing in large pots or tubs for the 
embellishment of steps, terrace walks and formal gardens in summer. 
Small plants are valued as " dot " plants in carpet bedding and beds 
of succulent plants. Agaves are propagated from suckers which 
push up around the parent plant, and by seeds sown in a greenhouse 
from March to July. A mixture of 3 parts loam and i part old 
mortar rubble and bricks constitutes a suitable soil. When repotting 
becomes necessary, which is not often, it should be done in spring. 
Agaves are of slow growth, and it is probably this fact which has 
led to their being designated " Century Plants," the theory being that 
the plants flower once in a hundred years. The facts are that they 
attain a considerable age before they flower — it may be twenty to 
fifty years or more— and after having flowered they die. During 
winter Agaves must be preserved from frost either in a cool green- 
house or a frost-proof shed where they can get a little Hght. The 
most popular and largely grown species is Agave americana, while its 
variety variegata, with green yellow-margined leaves, is even more 
striking. These plants in time grow to a large size, with thick, fleshy, 
spiny leaves 3 to 6 feet long and 6 to 9 inches wide. The crowning 
point of their life is reached when a tall strong stem gradually pushes 



i6 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

up, and by the time the immense panicle of small yellowish-green 
flowers opens it has reached a height of lo to 20 feet. Soon after 
the inflorescence dies a watch must be kept for suckers (growths 
from tlie base), or seeds may possibly be had. 

Ageratum {Floss Flower). — In Ageratum mexicanum, member 
of the Daisy family (Compositae), we possess a most useful bedding 
plant, readily propagated either from seeds sown in warmth during 
February and March, or by cuttings. A few of the latter are in- 
serted during August, kept in a heated greenhouse during winter, 
then in spring, February and March, when the plants are growing 
freely, lots of cuttings can be taken off and made to form roots in a 
propagating frame. They make quick progress, and by June will 
be good plants, 3 or 4 inches high, ready to plant out in the beds 
and borders. Ageratums delight in a light, rich soil in which leaf- 
mould has been mixed. The plants flower freely from June until 
October, and are only then spoilt by frosts. The typical kind, Ageratum 
mexicanum, grows about 2 feet in height. Under cultivation the wild 
Mexican plant has been wonderfully improved, and we have now a 
number of named sorts varying from 4 inches to 2 feet in height. 
Seedlings from a reliable source come true with few exceptions, though 
many gardeners prefer, when using Ageratums for bedding, to raise 
plants from cuttings. Swanley Blue, lilac-blue ; Tapis Blanc, white ; 
The Zoo, blue ; Princess Pauline, dwarf lilac-mauve ; Dwarf Blue 
Perfection, and Compactum nanum album, are all good sorts. Then 
from seeds one can grow Imperial Dwarf Blue, 9 inches ; Dwarf Wliite, 
9 inches ; Little Blue Star, 4 inches, very dwarf and free, valuable 
as an edging to beds and borders. There are also the ordinary selected 
strains, Tall Blue and Tall Wliite, i^ to 2 feet in height. 

Agr\mon\a {A gnmony). — Thisisa small groupof hardy herbaceous 
perennials allied to the Potentilla and Geum, and belonging to the 
Rose family (Rosaceae). They are easily grown, thriving in ordinary 
garden soil. Increase is by division of the clumps from October to 
March, or by seeds sown on a border outside from April to June. 
About six species are in cultivation ; the best known are : Agrimonia 
Eupatoria, small yellow flowers on long slender spikes in June and 
July, a common plant in the Northern Hemsiphere, including 
Britain, useful for the wild garden and for planting by the side of 
a woodland walk, thrives in sun or partial shade, 2 feet ; odorata, 
yellow flowers on long slender spikes, native of Europe, 3 to 4 feet, 
usually referred to as the Sweet-scented Agrimony. 

AgroBiemmei {Rose Campion). — A small class of hardy perennials 
and annuals allied to the Lychnis ; in fact, some botanists include 



AGROSTIS 17 

them in that family, but among growers of old-fashioned hardy plants 
the name Agrostemma is still used. They belong to the Pink family 
(Caryophyllaceae). They are easily grown, and showy border plants, 
thriving in common garden soil. The perennials may be increased 
by division during mild weather from October to March, and by 
seeds sown outside from April to June. Sow seeds of the annuals 
during March and April, where the plants are to blossom. Agrostemma 
Coeli-rosa (Rose of Heaven), rose, white, or purple flowers, is an annual 
growing about i foot high, flowering in summer, native of Levant ; 
coronaria, rosy-red, white, and crimson, June and August, is a favourite 
perennial border plant in cottage and country gardens, thriving in 
sun or partial shade, and often grown among hardy ferns, where 
self-sown seedUngs establish themselves ; the plant has silvery-white 
foHage and stems, and when in flower is about 2 feet high and almost 
as much through ; native of Southern Europe. There are several named 
varieties of this kind (though these can all be obtained from a packet 
of seeds) : for instance, alba, white ; bicolor, white, red centre ; 
atrosanguinea, crimson-purple. Agrostemma Flos-Jovis (Flower of 
Jove) has rose-pink flowers, June to September, and downy grey 
foliage, i^ to 2 feet ; it is perennial, and native of Switzerland. 

Agrostis {Cloud Grass, Spear Grass). — Interesting and elegant 
flowering grasses (Natural Order Gramineae), prized for cutting, and 
useful either green or in a dried state in vases with flowers. Agrostis 
laxiflora and nebulosa, 15 inches, are both European annuals and 
those most generally cultivated. Sow seeds outside in April where 
the grasses are to flower, or in patches and rows, so that when 
several inches high they can be lifted in small tufts and planted 
where required to flower in summer. The Cloud Grasses prefer 
a moderately light loamy soil. 

Ailanthus glanduiosa {Tree of Heaven). — This Chinese tree grows 
to a height of from 80 to 100 feet, and is well adapted for the climate 
of the British Isles. It thrives in a great variety of soils and posi- 
tions, and is attractive by reason of its long pinnate leaves and red 
fruits, which resemble those of the Ash. Of rapid growth, trees 
forty years old may be 60 feet high if growing in good loamy soil. 
Young trees planted in rich loam often produce leaves 4 feet in length, 
and it is customary to plant groups of them, and cut them to the 
ground each year, solely for the sake of the large leaves produced by 
the fresh annual shoots. Suckers, or shoots from the base, are pro- 
duced, and may be used for propagation, though layers and seeds 
in March are often preferred. A new Chinese species, Ailanthus 
vilmoriniana, differs from the other kind in having spiny bark, while 
c 



i8 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

its leaves are quite as decorative. Naturally-grown trees should 
be lightly pruned every second year whilst young, in order to keep 
the leading shoots free from rivals, and to check undue develop- 
ment of branch growth. Lower branches must be removed occa- 
sionally until the trunk is clear of branches to the desired height. 
Ailanthus which is deciduous belongs to the Natural Order 
Simarubaceae. 

AIra {Hair Grass). — Two species of Hair Grasses (Natural Order 
Gramineae), Aira flexuosa, i foot, and pulchella, 6 to 9 inches, are 
worth growing for the garden border and for cutting. Aira pulchella 
is very pretty as an edging for beds and borders. Both are perennials, 
and may be increased by division in autumn or spring, or by seeds 
sown outside in April. Ordinary well-drained garden soil suits these 
Grasses. WTien cut and dried for w^inter decoration the inflorescences 
are very useful. The first-named is a native of north temperate 
regions and the other of Southern Europe. 

AJuga (Bugle Flower). — A group of dwarf perennials (belonging 
to the Natural Order Labiatae, of which the Dead Nettle and Salvia 
are examples), suitable for the rock garden and as an edging to beds 
or borders. They are easy to cultivate, thriving in ordinary soil, 
and readily increased by division from October to i\Iarch. They are 
natives of Europe. Ajuga Brockbanki has deep blue flowers in spikes 
from May to August, 6 inches, makes a pretty carpet ; metallica crispa, 
crinkled foliage, blue flowers, effective in the rock garden, 6 inches. 
Reptans is the wild British plant, of which a white variety, alba, is 
worth a place in the rock garden ; the varieties variegata, forming a 
dense carpet of silvery variegated leaves, and purpurea, dark violet 
flowers and purple-bronze foliage, 3 to 6 inches, are used extensively 
for carpet bedding: 

Akebia. — A small family of vigorous-growing, woody climbers, 
belonging to the Barberry family (Berberidaceae), suitable for the 
open garden in the Midlands and south and for a wall farther north. 
They thrive in ordinary garden soil, but prefer that of a light loamy 
character which is well drained. Cuttings root readily in summer if 
inserte<l in sandy soil in a closed frame. It is well to cut a little of 
the superfluous outer growth away after the flowers fade. Two 
species are grown : lobata, from Japan, with three-lobed leaves ; and 
quinata, native of China and Japan, distinguished by its five-lobed 
leaves. In each case the flowers are purple, and appear in short 
axillary racemes in April with the young leaves. The fruits are 
sausage-shaped, 2 to 3 inches long, and violet in colour. Akebias may 
be planted against a bush, a fence, or pergola: 





THE BELLADONNA LILY 
(AMARYLLIS BELLADONNA) 



BLUE AND WHITE COLUMBINE 
(AQUILEGIA GLANDULOSA) 





THE SNOWDROP WINDFLOWER 
(ANEMONE SYLVESTRIS) 



A SHOWY CHAMOMILE (ANTHEMIS 
TINCTORIA) 



ALBIZZIA 19 

Albizzia (syn. Acacia). — Only one species, Albizzia lophantha, is 
useful in the outdoor garden in summer. It belongs to the Pea family 
(Leguminosae), and is a native of Australia. It is readily raised from 
seeds sown in a warm greenhouse in spring. Having pretty finely 
cut foliage, and being of tall slender growth, 2 to 6 feet high, the 
plants are very effective as " dot " plants in the summer flower beds* 
Greenhouse protection must be given in winter. As a rule, the plants 
are not kept more than two years, fresh ones being raised from seeds. 
The flowers are yellow, but the plants do not often bloom. Another 
kind not often seen is Albizzia Julibrissin, the Pink Siris of Asia and 
tropical Africa ; it is sometimes planted against high walls for the 
sake of its large, elegant deciduous leaves and pink flowers. No 
regular pruning is required. 

Albuca. — South African bulbous plants, allied to the Ornitho- 
galums, and members of the Lily family (Liliaceae). Albuca Nelsoni 
is the only species cultivated to any extent in this country. As the 
bulbs come from the Cape, they require a little extra Ccire and atten- 
tion ; in fact, they are often grown in pots in a cool greenhouse. On 
a warm, sunny border outside, however, they flower freely during 
July and August. The soil should be light and well-drained, leaf- 
mould and coarse sand being mixed in previous to planting the bulbs 
in March. Some growers Uft the bulbs in autumn and replant in 
spring ; others protect them with leaves in winter. Plant the bulbs 
4 inches deep and 6 inches apart. Increase is by offsets from the 
bulbs. The white flowers are borne on stalks 3 feet or so high. 

Alcherrtilla {Lady's Mantle). — A genus of evergreen hardy herba- 
ceous perennials and annuals, suitable for the rock garden and the 
front of borders, and belonging to the Rose family (Rosaceae). They 
are easily grown in ordinary soil in sunny or half-shaded positions. 
Increase is by division during open weather from October to March, 
and by seeds sown outside from April to June. The Alchemillas are 
valued as much for their foliage, which is evergreen and ornamental, 
as for the flowers, which are greenish in colour. Alchemilla alpina 
has very attractive silvery-grey leaves and not very conspicuous 
flowers in June, 6 inches, it is a British plant ; vulgaris, also a British 
plant, is 9 inches high, with grey-green evergreen foliage, particularly 
attractive in winter, greenish-yellow flowers, more interesting than 
pretty, in June, July. 

Mder.~{See Alnus.) 

Alisma. (Water Plantain). — These interesting and pretty water 
plants, members of the Natural Order Alismaceae, thrive in shallow 
water on the margins of ponds and pools, also in marshy ground. 



20 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Increase is by division and seeds ; lift, divide, and replant the roots 
in spring ; sow the seeds when ripe in autumn, in pots of loamy soil, 
and submerge them in water. The common species is Alisma Plan- 
tago, a British plant growing about 3 feet in height, and producing 
during July and August a freely branched inflorescence of pale rosy- 
white flowers ; a variety, lanceolata, has narrower leaves and pure 
white flowers. Alisma natans (or EHsma natans) is a smaller floating 
kind, with large solitary white flowers in July and August, native 
of Europe, including Britain ; ranunculoides, 6 to 9 inches, bearing 
purplish-rose flowers in August, resembles Alisma Plantago, but is a 
smaller plant ; it, too, is a native of Europe, including Britain. 

Allium.- — This is a large group of bulbous plants (which include 
the Onion and Shallot) belonging to the Lily family (Lihaceae). 
All are of easy cultivation, thriving in ordinary garden soil. With 
one or two exceptions, the Alliums should be planted in sunny 
positions along a border or in the rock garden. Several are attrac- 
tive for naturalising in woods and the wild garden. Increase is 
by offsets when replanting from September to November, and by 
seeds sown on a border outside when ripe or in spring. Plant the 
bulbs 3 to 4 inches deep, according to their size, the larger ones 
the deeper. A few of the best kinds are : acuminatum, rose, July 
and August, 9 to 12 inches. North America ; caeruleum (syn. 
azureum), blue, July, i to 2 feet, Siberia ; descendans, red-purple, 
July, 2 feet ; karataviense, reddish-lilac, June, 6 inches, has large, 
broad grey-green leaves, Turkestan ; Moly (Golden Garlic), i foot, 
bears yellow flowers in May, useful for borders and naturalising, 
Europe. Neapolitanum, native of Southern Europe, bearing white 
flowers in May, i to ij feet, is the most useful of all the Alliums, 
being valuable for the borders, for naturalising, planting in the 
rock garden, hardy fernery, etc. ; the flowers, when cut, are of 
value for indoor decoration and bouquets. Other good kinds are : 
Ostrowskianum, rose, May to June, 6 to 9 inches, is useful in the rockery 
and along the front of the flower border, Asia Minor ; pedemontanum 
(syn. narcissiflorum), rosy-purple, June, 6 to 9 inches, South-West. 
Europe ; pulchellum, rosy-purple, July, 9 inches, Europe ; Rosen- 
bachianum, purple-rose, July, 2^ feet, Bokhara, a vigorous and very 
striking plant for a sunny border ; roseum, bright rose, June to 
July, I foot, Mediterranean region ; triquctrum, white, striped 
green elegant-drooping flowers, June, i foot, Europe, one of the 
best for the wild garden, or hardy fernery. 

Allosorus crispus {Parsley Fern). — A small, choice Fern (Natural 
Order Eihces), found wild in Britain and worthy of association with 



ALNUS 21 

the finest kinds. It is 5 or 6 inches high, and its popular name 
is owing to the much-divided fronds resembhng the leaves of Parsley, 
not the dense moss-like Parsley of the present day, but the older 
type which used to be so much grown. Allosorus is seen at its best 
in the hilly districts of the northern counties ; it is deciduous, losing 
its fronds towards the end of October and producing new ones early 
in May. It grows wild in the crevices of rocks or among loose 
stones where there is a fair amount of moisture, and is suitable 
for the rock garden, where it will flourish in a cool, moist, shady spot 
that is effectually drained. A suitable compost may be formed of 
loam, peat, sand, and broken stone or brick, but it must be free from 
lime. The American Allosorus acrostichoides is more vigorous than 
the British kind; some regard it as a distinct species, others as a variety 
of the latter. 

AInus (Alder). — Deciduous trees or sometimes large shrubs 
(Natural Order Cupuliferae) which are well adapted for planting in 
cold and wet land. In fact, no British tree succeeds more satis- 
factorily under such unfavourable conditions than the Common 
Alder. There are many species, which are widely distributed in 
Europe, North Africa, Asia, and North America. All are from 
temperate climes, and the majority are adapted to the climate of 
the British Isles. The stronger kinds thrive in almost any variety 
of soil, providing it is not very dry. Some, more particularly 
viridis, glutinosa, and incana, may be planted in cold, heavy clay 
as a preparatory crop for more valuable timber trees. As a rule, 
they are increased by seeds in spring, though suckers are often 
used, and Alnus viridis, which is often used on the Continent for 
fixing the soil on steep mountain sides in cold, wet, and exposed 
positions, is always propagated by suckers in winter. Alders may 
be used for rough hedges, and they stand pruning well. Trees may 
be pruned during summer, the efforts of the pruner being directed 
towards keeping the leaders clear, removing dead wood, and the pro- 
duction of well-balanced trees. 

The wood of the Alder is used for a variety of purposes, notably 
the manufacture of clog soles, stakes, and the preparation of char- 
coal to be used in the manufacture of various explosives. For the 
latter purposes it is usually grown as a coppice tree. The following 
kinds all grow into moderate-sized trees : cordifolia, a tree with 
handsome, glossy, cordate leaves and large cone-hke fruits, native 
of Southern Europe ; firma, of Japanese origin, an interesting tree, with 
rather narrow, prominently- veined" leaves ; glutinosa, the Common 
Alder of our river-sides, its varieties aurea, with golden leaves, and 



22 THE. BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

imperialis and laciniata, with finely-lobed leaves, are well worth 
planting ; incana, the Speckled Alder of the north temperate regions, 
an invaluable tree for covering wet places about the lower elevations 
on mountain sides ; viridis, the Mountain Alder of northern regions, 
particularly valuable for cold places. 

Alonsoa {Mask Flower). — This is a small class of half-hardy 
perennials ; they are members of the Snapdragon family (Scrophu- 
lariaceae), and can only be grown outside in summer. Propagation 
is by cuttings inserted in August and kept in the greenhouse during 
winter, and by seeds sown in a heated greenhouse in February or 
March. About the end of May or early in June nice plants should 
be available for beds and borders ; they are also suitable for vases, 
and hanging baskets for a porch or veranda. If planted in a sunny 
position in light, rich soil, the Alonsoa flowers freely throughout 
summer and autumn. The most useful kinds are : incisifolia, 
scarlet, 2 feet or more, Peru and Chili ; Mutisii, delicate pink, i 
foot ; Warscewiczii, rosy-scarlet, ij feet, Peru and Chili ; var. 
compacta is a desirable bushy plant, i foot high, while Compact 
Scarlet and Compact Pink are two dwarf sorts, 9 inches high, use- 
ful for small beds or groups along the front of warm, sunny borders. 

Alopecurue {Fox-tail Grass). — Six species of this grass (Natural 
Order Gramineae) are found wild in Britain, and with one exception 
they are perennial. The Common Meadow Fox-tail (Alopecurus 
pratensis) grows about 2 feet in height, and is one of the earliest grasses 
to flower, being at its best in May and early June. For beds and borders 
the variety foliis variegatis (syn. aurea), with prettily variegated yellow 
leaves, is effective. The perennials are readily increased by division 
in autumn. The other species are : alpinus (Alpine Fox-tail Grass), i 
foot, June to July ; agrostis (Slender or Black Fox-tail Grass), annual, 
I foot to 2 feet, June to July, sow seeds in autumn or spring ; 
geniculatus (Floating Fox-tail Grass), i foot or taller in wet and 
shaded positions, July and August ; bulbosus (Tuberous Fox- tail Grass), 

1 foot, July, useful in wet positions ; fulvus (Orange-spiked Fox-tail 
Grass), i foot to 2 feet, July, has very prominent orange-yellow 
anthers, a waterside grass. ^ 

Aloysia citriodora {Lemon- scented Verbena). — This is a plant one 
finds in most old-fashioned gardens either in the cool greenhouse or 
outside at the base of a sunny wall or fence ; it belongs to the Verbena 
family (Verbenaceae). A light, well-drained loamy soil is most suit- 
able, and increase is by cuttings inserted in a propagating frame or 
under a handlight in spring when the young growths are i inch to 

2 indies long. The Lemon-scented Verbena is a deciduous shrub 




THE ALPINE AURICULA (PRIMULA AURICULA) 



ALSTROEMERIA 23 

first introduced from Chili in 1781. During August panicles of small 
lilac-tinted white flowers are freely produced. The plant is somewhat 
tender. Thus in winter it is wise to protect the stems with bracken, 
straw, or mats. To keep the plants shapely the shoots of the previous 
season should be pruned each year in January or February before 
new growth commences. 

Alstroemeria (Peruvian Lily). — This is a group of tuberous- 
rooted plants, the hardy members of which are natives of Peru and 
Chili ; they belong to the Amaryllis family (Amaryllidaceae). They 
need a light, deep, and well-drained soil, and a warm, sunny position, 
as, for example, a border at the base of a south or south-west wall. If 
the soil in one's garden is heavy the Alstroemerias are well worth 
special preparation ; take out the soil to a depth of 2^ to 3 feet, in 
the bottom put 6 inches of brick rubble, over this a layer of half- 
decayed leaves and manure, then finally a bed of 2 parts sandy loam, 
I part leaf-mould or peat, and plenty of coarse sand. Plant the 
roots in spring 6 inches deep. Increase is by seeds and division of 
the roots. Sow the seeds in a heated greenhouse during February 
or March, prick off the seedlings into boxes when large enough, and 
later, about June, after hardening off in a cold frame, plant on a 
warm border outside. From an early sowing a few plants may flower 
late in the season, but it takes two years to get a good bed of Alstroe- 
meria from seeds. Lifting and dividing the roots may be done in 
spring, but the less the roots are disturbed the better ; it is prefer- 
able to plant seedlings than to divide old plants. Top-dress the border 
each autumn with a mixture of old cow manure and half-decayed 
leaves. The flowering season of Alstroemeria is July and August. 
The best kinds are : aurantiaca, orange, suffused red, spotted car- 
mine, 3 feet ; chilensis hybrida, many lovely shades of crimson, orange, 
red, rose, buff, yellow, and blush with crimson or orange-yellow mark- 
ings, 2 feet ; lutea, yellow, spotted carmine, 3 feet ; pelegrina, there are 
purple, white, and rose-coloured forms, i foot to ij feet ; psittacina, 
crimson, streaked with green and mahogany, 2 feet. 

Alternanthera. — This plant, perhaps more than any other, is 
extensively used in carpet bedding. The different varieties grow 
only a few inches in height, and have brightly coloured foliage — 
crimson, red, pink, or yellow. The plants are usually clipped every 
week during summer with a small pair of shears to keep them dwarf, 
and to maintain the design of which they form a part. Alternantheras 
are natives of Brazil ; they thrive in any light, rich soil. Increase is 
by cuttings ; the first of these are put in early in August, in pots 
or boxes, for stock, to be kept during the winter in a greenhouse. In 



24 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

increased warmth in spring the plants commence to grow freely, with 
the result that hundreds of cuttings can be obtained ; these are in- 
serted I inch apart in boxes or pots, and placed in a closed propagating 
frame. They grow very quickly, and the tops will be ready to take 
off and insert as cuttings in from four to five weeks. Propagation 
should be carried out in a closed frame in a warm greenhouse from 
February to April. In May, place the boxes or pots in a cold frame 
to harden off preparatory to planting outside early in June. There 
are numerous sorts, including amoena, amabilis, magnifica, parony- 
chioides (and its varieties, aurea, versicolor), and spectabilis. Alternan- 
thera belongs to the Natural Order Amarantaceae. 

Althaea (Hollyhock). — The Althaea or Hollyhock, which belongs 
to the Mallow family (Malvaceae), is, strictly speaking, a hardy 
perennial, but more satisfactory results are obtained, as a rule, by 
treating the plants as biennials. Formerly, when popular as a florists' 
flower, the Hollyhock was propagated by cuttings, divisions and 
eyes or buds. Named varieties were in great demand, and to keep 
them true one of these methods of increase was necessary. Though 
there are still a few named sorts, seedlings are generally grown. Sow 
the seeds on a border outside from April to June, and in September 
or October move the young plants to the positions where they are 
to flower the following summer. Favourite positions for Hollyhocks 
are in a bed on the lawn, in groups of three to six or more in the mixed 
flower border, while in the shrubbery border the tall imposing flower 
spikes are effective. Hollyhocks delight in a deeply cultivated soil 
enriched with decayed manure. The plants vary considerably in 
height ranging from 6 to lo or even 12 feet. July and August is the 
flowering season, though more often than not there are blooms on 
the plants until the end of September. There are several varieties 
or types of Hollyhocks. Taking the forms of Althaea rosea (native 
of the Orient) first, we find the ordinary single-flowered strain, another 
with large outer or guard petals, and a rosette of petals in the middle, 
and a third with perfectly double, rounded flowers. Seeds of these 
can be purchased in mixture or in a dozen separate colours, which 
include white, cream, yellow, blush, pink, rose, orange-yellow, red, 
and crimson. A second attractive group consists of the Fig-leaved 
Hollyhock, Althaea ficifolia, from Siberia. The typical plant has 
distinct deeply cut leaves and primrose-yellow flowers, while there 
are varieties in rose and pink shades, obtainable from a packet of 
mixed seeds. During recent years gardeners have given some atten- 
tion to the treatment of Hollyhocks as annuals, the seeds being sown 
in a heated greenhouse during February or early March. These plants 



ALYSSUM 25 

flower from August to October, thus considerably extending the 
season. The ordinary varieties will respond to this treatment, but 
those known as Annual Hollyhocks are better for the purpose. One 
of the best-named varieties is Palling Belle, delicate rosy-pink, with 
outer guard petals and a rosette in the centre. This comes quite 
true from seeds, and is a charming variety. 

So far nothing has been said about the Hollyhock as a hardy 
perennial. When digging over the borders in late October or Novem- 
ber, some of the plants will probably be found to be well supplied 
with young shoots at the base. When this is the case, the best of them 
should, of course, be left to flower the following year. 

Alyssum [Madwori or Gold Dust). — Popular hardy perennials for 
large and small gardens, suitable for the rockery beds and borders. 
They are natives of Europe and Asia Minor, and are numerous in 
Alpine and mountainous districts. The Madworts, which belong to 
the Wallflower family (Cruciferae) succeed in ordinary garden soil 
which has been well dug and is not too heavy. Increase is by seeds, 
cuttings, or division of the clumps. Those which flower in spring 
and summer may be divided and replanted in September and October, 
or cuttings are inserted in a cold frame during July and August. 
Sow seeds in a cold frame or on a border out of doors from April to 
June. The best-known species is Alyssum saxatile, a plant with 
yellow flowers which should be grown in every rockery and mixed 
flower border, also for spring bedding in association with Wallflowers, 
Polyanthus, etc. It grows i foot in height, flowering freely from, 
April to June, native of Europe ; the variety citrinum has lemon- 
coloured blossoms, flore pleno has double, golden yellow flowers, com- 
pactum is a dwarf, compact-growing, yeUow-blossomed variety, 6 to 
9 inches high, and variety variegatum has prettily variegated foliage. 
Other kinds are : Alyssum alpestre, yellow, April to June, 3 to 6 inches, 
suitable for the rockery and chinks of old walls ; argenteum, yellow, 
May to July, traihng stems, light silvery fohage, i foot ; montanum, 
yellow. May to July, fragrant, 3 to 6 inches, rockery ; rostratum, 
yellow. May to July, silvery leaves, i foot ; serpy Hi folium, pale yellow, 
June to August, dwarf-spreading habit, 6 inches, grey fohage ; spino- 
sum, white, June to August, spiny branches and small hoary green 
leaves, i foot. 

The last to be mentioned, though not by any means the least im- 
portant, is the Sweet Alyssum (maritimum), known also as Koeniga 
maritima. Though strictly a perennial, this delightfully fragrant white- 
flowered plant is more often treated as an annual. Sow the seeds in a 
cool greenhouse or frame early in April, or outside where the plants 



26 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

are to flower. Growing only i foot in height, the Sweet Alyssum is 
much used as a carpet plant and as an edging to beds and borders ; 
it flowers from June to October. There are several dwEirf sorts of 
Sweet Alyssum grown under various names, as minimum, compactum, 
Little Gem, Little Dorrit, Dwarf Bouquet, and procumbens ; all have 
a more or less compact dwarf habit, and carpet the ground with 
their snow-white flowers throughout summer. For edgings to beds 
or borders, and carpet bedding, these dainty little plants are unsur- 
passed. These and the variety variegata, which has green and white 
leaves, were formerly propagated almost exclusively by cuttings, a 
few for stock being inserted in August, and the young plants kept 
in a greenhouse during winter, and further increased by cuttings from 
February to April. To-day a large percentage of plants from seeds 
come true — in a reliable strain not more than two or three in a hundred 
plants deviate from the desired dwarf compact habit. 

Amarantus [Love-lies-Bleeding). — Hardy and half-hardy annuals, 
int»..vesting and useful for beds and borders in summer. Though 
one or two kinds can be successfully grown from seed sown out of 
doors, towards the end of March or early in April, it is better to sow 
seeds of all sorts in a warm greenhouse during April. They are 
easily cultivated, and grow quickly in a warm, moist atmosphere 
in spring. Wlien space permits, it is worth while keeping the plants 
singly in small pots ; failing this, prick off the seedlings in shallow 
boxes. Use a rich soil of 2 parts loam, i part leaf-mould, i part 
decayed manure, and i part coarse sand. Plant outside at the end of 
May or early in June in a sunny position. The chief kinds are : bicolor 
ruber, carmine-scarlet leaves mingled with green, 2 feet, India ; 
caudatus (Love-lies-Bleeding), pendulous racemes of dark red flowers, 

2 to 3 feet. Tropics ; Henderi, ornamental foliage, rosy-carmine, orange, 
yellow, and green, a garden variety, 3 feet ; hypochondriacus (Prince's 
Feather), crimson flowers on terminal, erect, densely-packed spikes, 

3 to 5 feet. North America ; melancholicus ruber, very effective for 
beds, bright-red foliage, i foot, Japan ; salicifolius, long, narrow, 
undulated leaves, variously coloured, orange, carmine, bronze, 3 feet, 
Philippine Isles ; tricolor (Joseph's Coat), scarlet and yellow foliage, 
shaded with light green and cream, 2 feet. East Indies ; and its variety 
splendens, having broader leaves, scarlet-crimson, marked with yellow 
and green, i^ feet. Amarantus belongs to the Natural Order Amar- 
antaceae. 

Amaryllis Belladonna {Belladonna Lily). — This Lily, which is a 
native of the Cape of Good Hope, belongs to the Natural Order Amaryl- 
lidaceae, and is one of the treasures of our garden in autumn: The 



AMELANCHIER 27 

bulbs need a warm and sheltered position, e.g. the foot of a south 
or south-west wall. If the position chosen is not well drained, take 
out the soil to a depth of 3 feet and put in i foot of old broken bricks 
and mortar rubble ; on this place a mixture of turfy loam, leaf-mould, 
well-decayed cow manure, and plenty of coarse sand to make the 
soil porous. June and July is the best time to plant the bulbs. 
Increase is by transplanting the offsets that form on the bulbs, and 
by seeds, preferably the former. Plant the bulbs 6 inches deep, i foot 
apart, and in winter mulch with several inches of half-decayed leaves. 
The flowers appear in September and October, while the leaves push 
up early in the new year. When once planted the bulbs ought to 
remain undisturbed for some years. The flowers are large, rosy- 
pink, funnel-shaped, and fragrant, half a dozen or more flowers in 
an umbel or cluster on a stalk about ij feet high ; the leaves are long 
and strap-shaped. There are several varieties, the colours varying 
considerably in intensity. The most distinct are : purpurea maxima, 
earlier to flower and deeper in colour than the type ; blanda, pallida, 
and major. 

Amelanohier (Snowy Mespilus). — Several showy flowering trees 
and bushes are included in this group, which belongs to the Rose 
family (Rosaceae). The majority are natives of North America, but 
one is found in Europe and another in Japan. The larger- growing 
kinds form short trunks with wide-spreading heads of branches, 
whilst the others occur as bushes a few feet high. In most instances 
the flowers are white, though in one or two cases they inchne to cream 
colour. April and May is the usual flowering time, the period vary- 
ing somewhat according to the season and the district in which the 
plants are growing. The leaves often colour brilliantly in autumn, 
especially when the trees are in moderately good soil. They thrive 
in any fair garden soil, and do fairly well in sandy ground. Pro- 
pagation of most kinds is by seeds, though one or two may be increased 
by division of the clumps. No regular pruning is necessary, though 
the larger-growing kinds are benefited by an occasional thinning. 
The following are the best kinds : alnifolia, an upright-growing bush 
from North- West America, bearing white flowers; canadensis, the June- 
berry or Service-berry of North America, and the commonest kind 
in cultivation ; it grows from 15 to 30 feet high, with a wide-spreading 
head, and never fails to bear a profusion of white flowers. The variety 
oblongifolia is of bushy habit, 4 to 6 feet high, spreads by suckers, 
and blossoms with the greatest freedom ; it is excellent for a bed, and 
the effect is enhanced by carpeting with Muscari conicum (Grape 
Hyacinth). Amelanchier oligocarpa, a rare, bushy kind from the 



28 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Northern United States, bears larger flowers than most others ; vul- 
garis is a bush or small tree, native of Europe. 

Ammobium {Winged Everlasting). — Only one species, Ammobium 
alatum, from Australia, is grown in gardens. It belongs to the 
Daisy family (Compositae), is really a perennial, but is best treated as 
an annual or biennial. Sow the seeds during August and September 
in a cold frame, or in a greenhouse in March. Plant outside towards 
the end of May, choosing a sunny position and light, sandy soil. The 
plants grow about 2\ feet high, have curiously winged stems (hence 
the name " alatum " ), and silvery white flowers i inch to i^ inches 
across, with golden-yellow centre. In addition to their decorative 
value in the garden the flowers of the Winged Everlasting are valuable 
to cut and dry for winter. About the middle of August, on a dry, 
sunny afternoon, when the flowers are fully open, cut them with long 
stems, tie up in small bunches, and hang heads-downward in an airy 
shed to dry. 

Amoppha.— A group of shrubs, members of the Pea family (Legu- 
minosae), of which two kinds only call for remark. These are Amorpha 
fruticosa, the False Indigo of the Southern United States; and canescens 
the Lead Plant of the United States. The former grows from 6 to 
10 feet high, and is recognised by its green pinnate leaves and terminal 
heads of purple flowers, borne in July. The dead points of the shoots 
should be removed in February, or, if grown for the sake of the foliage 
alone, the previous year's shoots may be cut 6ard back in early spring. 
Amorpha canescens bears silvery or greyish pinnate leaves and terminal 
panicles of purple flowers. It grows 2 to 3 feet high, and the previous 
year's branches should be cut back to within a bud or two of the 
base in February. Propagation by seeds or cuttings in autumn. 

Ampelopsis. — {See ViTis.) 

Amsonia. — Hardy herbaceous perennials, natives of North 
America, and members of the Periwinkle family (Apocynaceae). 
Only one species appears to be in cultivation, and that is Amsonia 
Tabernaemontana. This grows 2\ to 3 feet in height, and bears 
pretty one-sided bunches (cymes) of pale blue flowers in summer. 
Increase is by division of the clumps in autumn or spring, and by 
cuttings inserted in a slightly heated frame towards the end of April 
or early in May, when the young growths usually push up freely. 
Amsonia thrives in ordinary garden soil in a sunny or partially shaded 
border, and is quite a good plant for the shrubbery border. 

Anagallis {Pimpernel). — Annual and perennial plants for the 
rockery and front of flower borders ; they belong to the Primula family 
(Primulaceae). Rich, rather light soil suits them best. It is usual to 



ANAPHALIS 29 

treat them as half-hardy annuals, sowing the seeds under glass or in 
a warm, sheltered spot outside during April. The flowering season 
extends from July to August, varying according to when the seeds 
are sown. The best kinds are : indica, small deep blue flowers, 
July, trailing growth, an annual from Nepaul ; linifolia, an annual, 
the Italian Pimpernel, a European species, 6 inches, of which there 
are numerous varieties, with red, crimson, lilac, or blue flowers 
(two of the best are Parksii, large-flowered red, and Phillipsii, large 
deep blue). For the bog garden and moist positions along the foot 
of the rock garden the British Bog Pimpernel (Anagallis tenella) is 
worth a position. It is a trailing plant, with dainty pink flowers in 
summer. Being perennial, the roots may be lifted and divided in 
March, or seeds sown during March and April where the plants are 
to flower. 

Anaphalis {Pearly Everlasting). — Only one species is much grown : 
Anaphalis (syn. Antennaria margaritacea), native of North America? 
It is a hardy herbaceous perennial, member of the Daisy family 
(Compositae), growing about 2 feet high, and having, in August, clusters 
of white flowers. These are extensively grown for market, and in a 
dried state are dyed in various colours and sold in florists' shops 
during the winter for decorative purposes under the name of Immor- 
telle. Propagation is by division of the roots in spring, and by seeds 
sown in a greenhouse or frame during March. Plant in light soil on 
a sunny border, or in the rock garden. 

Anastatica {Rose of Jericho, Resurrection Plant). — Anastatica 
hierochuntica is a curious little annual, belonging to the Wallflower 
family (Cruciferae), having the remarkable property of being able 
to revive when placed in water after being kept dry for several years. 
Sow the seeds in light sandy soil in a heated greenhouse during 
February or March. Grow the young plants singly in small pots, 
and plant outside on a rather dry, sunny border early in June. The 
tiny white flowers are disposed along the branches in small spikes 
usually during July and August ; fruits follow these, and the leaves 
fall off. The Rose of Jericho grows wild in the Orient, and attains 
a height of about 6 inches. 

Anchusa {Alkanet). — Annuals and perennials, belonging to the 
Borage family (Boragineae), easily grown in ordinary soil. All may 
be increased by seeds. Sow the annuals in March in a slightly heated 
greenhouse or frame, or out-of-doors in April, and the perennial kinds 
in a frame from April to June. A preferable method, however, is 
to propagate the perennials from pieces of the thick, fleshy roots. 
Cut them into pieces 2 inches or so in length, and plant in light sandy 



30 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

soil outside, or in a box in a cold frame ; each piece will speedily 
grow into a young plant. This work may be done in autumn, when- 
ever the old plants can be lifted to obtain the roots. In many gardens 
the old plants of the Dropmore Anchusa die after flowering ; it is, 
however, an easy matter to maintain a stock of plants by root cuttings. 
September is a good time to plant the perennial kinds. Taking 
them in alphabetical order, the first is Anchusa Barrelieri, a hardy 
perennial, with small, deep blue flowers, June to July, 3 feet, South 
Europe ; capensis, an annual, deep blue, July to August, i^ feet, 
Cape of Good Hope. These two plants may also be treated as biennials, 
sowing the seeds in a cold frame during July or August, keeping 
them in the frame during winter, and planting outside early in May. 
A variety of Anchusa italica (blue, summer, 3 to 4 feet, Mediterranean 
region), known as the Dropmore Anchusa, has lovely rich gentian blue 
flowers, freely borne from May to August on tall branching plants, 5 or 
6 feet in height ; a second variety. Opal, is similar in habit, but has 
paler blue flowers ; both may be raised from seeds, but aM the seed- 
lings do not come true to colour. These two plants well repay liberal 
cultivation ; trench the ground i| feet deep, working in some 
decayed manure and wood ashes, mulch with manure during May, 
and water freely during dry weather. In small gardens probably 
space can only be found for two or three groups in the flower border, 
but in larger gardens a bed filled with the Dropmore Anchusa is most 
effective. Other kinds are : officinalis (Common Alkanet or Borage), 
an annual, blue, June to September, i foot to i^ feet, Europe, self- 
sown seedlings come up freely ; sempervirens (Evergreen Alkanet), 
perennial, rich blue flowers from May onwards, 2 feet, Europe, and 
myosotidiflora, perennial, having large blooms and Forget-me-not- 
like flowers in May, it is about 2 feet high. The Anchusas are 
favourite flowers of the honey-bee. 

Andromeda.— Polifolia is the only species of this group (which 
belongs to the Heather family, Ericaceae) that calls for remark. A 
native of the northern and arctic regions, it is sometimes found wild 
in the British Isles. It grows naturally in damp, peaty soil, and is 
at home in the drier parts of peat bogs. Rarely exceeding i| or 
2 feet in height, it is recognised by its narrow evergreen greyish 
leaves, which bear some resemblance to those of the Rosemary, 
and by its pink urn-shaped blossoms, which appear in spring. The 
varieties angustifolia and major have narrower and wider leaves 
respectively than the type. Plant in peaty soil, propagate by 
seeds or division in spring, and do not prune. 

Androsace {Rock Jasmine). — The Androsaces, which belong to 




Q 

< 

o 

o 

< 
w 

Q 

< 



ANEMONE 31 

the Primrose family (Primulaceae), are natives of the high alpine 
regions of Europe and the Himalaya; they are among the most 
charming of rock garden plants, of low growth, and flowering freely 
when happily placed. Some kinds, those having silky leaves, must 
be protected from rain during winter by means of a pane of glass 
raised a few inches above them. While several Androsaces are difficult 
to grow, others give little trouble providing the conditions essential 
to their welfare are not wanting ; these are well-drained, loamy, stony 
soil, and generally a sunny position. The easiest of all to grow is 
lanuginosa, from the Himdaya, with silky leaves and rosy-lilac flowers 
in summer ; it looks well on a sunny, stony slope, the var. Leichtlini is 
of a paler shade with crimson centre. Androsace sarmentosa, another 
Himalayan kind, is very showy in May, when its bunches of rose- 
coloured blooms are at their best ; in well-drained gritty soil this 
kind spreads quickly by means of runners, which may be induced to 
form roots by pegging down, thus offering a ready means of propa- 
gation. Androsace Chumbyi is a nearly allied sort with flowers of 
carmine colour in May, needing a similar soil and position. 

Androsace villosa, from the Alps of Europe and Asia, has fragrant 
rosy flowers in May and June, and forms a tuft of silvery leaves ; it 
needs exceptionally well-drained, stony soil and a sunny spot. Andro- 
sace carnea, from the European Alps, is a dainty little tufted plant, 
with green leaves and rosy blooms in May ; Lagged, from the Pyrenees, 
has grey foliage and rose flowers. Both thrive in stony soil. 

Androsace foliosa, from the Himalaya, is altogether a more 
\Higorous plant, bearing rose-Hlac blooms on stems 8 or 10 inches high 
during summer. This kind prefers slight shade and a sandy loam, 
with which a little leaf-soil is mixed. Two others which may rank 
among the easily grown sorts are villosa and Chamaejasme ; both are 
natives of the European Alps and other districts ; the flowers of villosa 
are rose-coloured, those of Chamaejasme almost white. Stony soil 
and full sunshine provide conditions that meet their requirements. 

Among Androsaces that are more fastidious in their needs are the 
following : Androsace glacialis is a delightful little plant from the 
European Alps that, when happy, bears a profusion of bright rose- 
coloured blooms in April and May ; it is most likely to succeed in a 
moraine composed of granite chips with which a little light soil is 
mixed. Androsace alpina, from the Alps of Europe, bearing white 
blooms in April, and cihata, native of the Pyrenees, with rose 
flowers in spring, thrive in a shady crevice in moraine mixture. 

Anemone {Wind flower). —This is a most useful class of hardy 
plants for both large and small gardens ; they are members of the 



32 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 



-*^: 



Buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). Included are a large number 
of tuberous-rooted plants and numerous hardy herbaceous peren- 
nials, together providing a continuous display of blossom from 
early spring until late autumn. They differ so widely that we 
take them in alphabetical order, and touch briefly on the most 
important points of each. The first is Anemone alpina (Alpine 
Windflower), with pinnate leaves, white flowers tinged with blue, 
June to August, thrives in ordinary soil, in sun or partial shade, 
I foot to i^ feet ; increased by division in autumn or spring ; 

native of Europe. Apennina (Apennine 
Anemone) has sky-blue flowers in March 
and April, thrives in light soil, in half 
shade, 6 inches, and is particularly effective 
under deciduous trees and shrubs. It is 
planted in autumn, the roots being 
covered with 2 inches of soil, and placed 
3 inches apart ; increased by division of 
tubers in autumn ; native of Europe. 
Blanda (Greek Windflower) bears deep blue 
blooms in February and March, needs the 
same treatment as the preceding, 6 inches ; 
native of Asia Minor. 

Anemone coronaria (Poppy Anemone) 
has flowers of many rich shades of colour, 
single and double, from early spring to mid- 
summer, g to 12 inches ; plant in October, 
November, January, and February, in light 
rich soil, sun or partial shade, 2 to 3 inches 
deep, 3 to 4 inches apart ; increase is by 
seeds sown outside on a sheltered border as 
soon as ripe and by division of tubers ; native of Mediterranean region. 
The St. Brigid, Single and Double Poppy, Caen, Nice, and Chrysan- 
themum-flowered are popular strains of this Anemone, and for form- 
ing brilliant beds and borders from April to June they are unequalled. 
Good named varieties are : The Bride, white ; Scarlet King ; Rose 
de Nice, delicate rose ; King of Violets ; Fire King, double scarlet ; 
Bluebeard, dark purplish blue, and Rose Mignon, deep rose. 

Anemone Hepatica (Common Hepatica) bears red, white, blue, 
single and double flowers, from March to May, 5 or 6 inches ; in- 
creased by division in August or September. Do not disturb the 
roots as long as they flower freely, and plant in shade or partial 
shade among hardy ferns, or the rock garden, in light leafy soil ; 




ANEMONE 
ALPINA 



ANEMONOPSIS 33 

native of the Northern Hemisphere. Hortensis (Starry Windflower 
or Peacock Anemone) produces numerous flowers of beautiful colours 
in spring, 9 to 12 inches ; native of Southern Europe ; its distinct 
variety, fulgens (the Scarlet Windflower of Greece and the Pyrenees), 
with dazzling scarlet blooms, is well known. Plant in similar posi- 
tions and treat as advised for Anemone coronaria. 

Anemone japonica (Japanese Windflower) is one of our best late 
summer and autumn flowering herbaceous plants, a favourite for 
the north border and shady front garden. The Japanese Anemone 
delights in deeply-dug, well-manured soil, resents disturbance at 
the root, and will flower freely for years in the same position ; pro- 
pagated by division in March, native of Japan. There are many 
beautiful varieties, varying from 2 to 3I feet in height. A few of 
the best are : alba, white ; Coupe d'Argent, semi-double white ; 
elegans, soft rose ; Lady Ardilaun, tall, semi-double white ; Mont 
Rose, rose-pink ; Prince Heinrich, crimson, semi-double ; Queen 
Charlotte, semi-double, rose ; and Whirlwind, pure white, semi- 
double. 

Anemone nemorosa (Wood Anemone) has white, or rosy-white, 
flowers in March and April, 4 to 6 inches ; beautiful varieties are : 
Robinsoniana, pale lavender ; alba fl. pi., double white ; rosea fl. pi., 
double rose ; they are natives of the Northern Hemisphere, including 
Britain, and need the same treatment as Anemone apennina. 

Anemone Pulsatilla (Pasque Flower) bears shaggy, violet-mauve 
blossoms in April and May, 9 to 12 inches ; native of Europe. Plant 
in a half-shady position in light soil containing leaf-mould and old 
mortar rubble. Increase is by seeds sown as soon as ripe, and 
by division in late summer or early autumn ; leave the roots 
undisturbed as long as possible. 

Other Anemones are : ranunculoides (Yellow Wood Anemone), with 
Buttercup-yellow flowers, from March to May, 4 to 6 inches, Europe — 
treat as advised for Anemone apennina ; sylvestris (Snowdrop Wind- 
flower), having satiny-white, drooping flowers in early summer, 12 to 
18 inches, Europe — a useful herbaceous plant for shady borders and 
the rock garden. 

Anemonopsis. — There is only one species in cultivation, namely 
macrophylla (Natural Order Ranunculaceae, Buttercup family). In 
habit and general appearance the plant suggests a small Anemone 
japonica. It grows about 2 feet in height, bears lilac-coloured flowers 
during June and July, and thrives in ordinary garden soil. Increase 
is by division of the roots in spring, and by seeds sown preferably as 
soon as ripe. The Anemonopsis is a native of Japan. 

D 



34 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Antennaria {Cat's Ear). — This is a little group of dwarf alpine 
perennials, belonging to the Daisy family (Compositae), suitable 
for the rock garden. The chief kinds are : alpina, a tufted plant 
with rose-coloured flowers in June and July, 4 to 6 inches, North 
Europe ; dioica, pink fiower-licads in June and July, and hoary foHage, 
3 inches, Europe, including Britain ; the variety minor is a miniature 
rock plant with pink flower-heads in May and June ; and variety 
tomentosa, with silvery foliage and white flowers, is a useful and 
popular plant for carpet-bedding and for use as an edging for beds 
and borders. Increase is by division in autumn or spring ; the 
last-named can also be propagated from seeds sown in a frame, or 
outside, from April to July. The plants thrive in light sandy soil. 

Anthemis (Chamomile). — Of the numerous kinds of Anthemis 
(Natural Order Compositae, Daisy family), only two or three find a 
place in the flower borders. They are herbaceous perennials, easily 
cultivated in ordinary garden soil, and increased by division of the 
roots in autumn or spring, and by seeds sown on a border outside 
from April to June. Anthemis Biebersteini has silvery foliage and 
bears yellow flowers in June and July, 12 inches. Orient ; macedonica, 
silvery leaves, large white flowers, from July to September, useful in 
the rockery, 6 inches. Several varieties of tinctoria (Ox-eye Chamo- 
mile) are good border plants, namely E. C. Buxton, lemon-yellow ; 
grandifiora, golden-yellow ; Kelwayi, bright yellow ; Mrs. H. T. 
Brooks, pale creamy-yellow ; and pallida, sulphur yellow. In height 
the plants varj' from i| to 2 feet, and continue to flower freely from 
June until September. 

Anthericum (St. Bernard's Lily). — Dainty border perennials, 
members of the Lily family (Liliaceae), forming clumps or tufts of 
grass-like leaves, and bearing freely branched spikes of white flowers. 
Anthericums thrive in sun or partial shade, in light, rather rich soil. 
Plant in March. Propagate by division of the clumps in spring, and 
by seeds sown in a cold frame as soon as ripe. The chief sorts are : 
Anthericum Liliago, 2 feet, Europe and North Africa ; variety Algeriense 
(major), 3 feet ; ramosum, 2 feet, Europe ; a third species, Liliastrum, 
is now grown as Paradisia Liliastrum. 

Antholyza. — A small class of South African bulbous plants with 
Iris-like leaves (Natural Order Irideae) and attractive flower 
spikes. A warm, sheltered position at the foot of a sunny south 
wall and a bed of light sandy soil consisting of equal parts peat, 
loam, leaf-mould, and coarse sand are necessaiy. Increase is by 
division of the offsets during February or early March. During 
winter cover the ground with several inches of half-decayed leaves 




A FLOWER CASCADE— MAUVE AND PINK AUBRIETIA 



ANTHOXANTHUM 35 

as a protection against frosts. Plant the bulbs 6 to 8 inches 
deep in spring. Some growers prefer to lift the bulbs in autumn, 
store them in sand or light soil in a frost-proof shed, and replant 
in spring. The best species are : aethiopica, scarlet and yellowish- 
green flowers, June, 2 to 3 feet ; caffra, rich scarlet, July, 2 feet ; 
cunonia, scarlet and black, July, 2 feet ; paniculata, deep crimson, 
July, 4 feet ; crocosmioides (a hybrid between paniculata and 
crocosma), reddish-orange, September, 3 feet. 

Anthoxanthum {Vernal Grass). — The best-known species of these 
ornamental grasses (Natural Order Gramineae) is Anthoxanthum odor- 
atum, a pretty native perennial kind, growing i foot in height and 
thriving in ordinary border soil. Increase is by division of the roots 
in autumn or spring and by seeds sown in September or March. It 
is an early flowering grass, being in full bloom by the middle of April. 
The Vernal Grass is not one that can be recommended for the flower 
border, but is worth growing in the wild garden and by the water- 
side. A second species, Anthoxanthum Puelii, from Central Europe, 
is an annual. This has more slender stems and a thinner panicle 
of bloom. 

Anthyllis {Kidney Vetch). — Shrubs, perennials, and annuals, 
belonging to the Pea family (Leguminosae). The best known is 
Anthyllis montana, a pretty rock plant of trailing habit and silvery 
silky foliage that bears rose-pink flowers in June, it is native 
of the European Alps ; add lime rubble to the soil when planting, 
increased by division in autumn or spring, and by seeds sown pre- 
ferably in a cold frame when ripe. Anthyllis erinacea (Prickly Kidney 
Vetch), with bluish-purple flowers in April and May, 9 to 12 inches, 
is a spiny plant from Spain ; plant in a warm position on a dry, sunny 
rockery, increase by seeds or cuttings inserted under a bell-glass 
during summer. AnthylHs Barba-Jovis is a shrub with silky leaves, 
bearing pale yellow flowers in March and April, native of Spain ; 
plant against a warm, sunny fence or wall, in well-drained soil. 

Antirrhinum {Snapdragon). — The most important of the Snap- 
dragons (Natural Order Scrophulariaceae) is majus. Strictly speak- 
ing, this is a shrubby perennial, for in sheltered gardens the plants 
continue to grow and flower for some years. They are, however, 
so readily raised from seeds as to be usually treated as annuals or 
biennials. Sow the seeds in a cold frame during July, or in a heated 
greenhouse during February. The plants delight in loamy soil 
enriched with leaf-mould and decayed manure. Plant outside during 
May. For beds and borders the Antirrhinum is unsurpassed when a 
brilHant display of flowers is desired from the end of June until 



36 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

October. During recent years tlicir use in summer bedding has 
become popular. 

There are three sections : tall, intermediate, and dwarf. The 
tall varieties grow about 3 feet in height, and are favourites for 
borders, being sold in mixed colours, or seeds of some twelve shades 
of colour may be purchased separately. The intermediate section 
or varieties of medium height, ij to 2 feet, are the most popular 
for summer bedding, and may be obtained in numerous distinct 
colours. The Tom Thumb or dwarf varieties, 6 to 9 inches, are very 
useful for edgings to beds and borders ; the three best sorts are Yellow 
Prince, WTiite Queen, and Crimson King. In company with the 
Wallflower, the Snapdragon is very pretty on old walls and in dry, 
stony borders. Formerly florists propagated named varieties of 
Snapdragons extensively from cuttings in much the same way as 
bedding Calceolarias, inserting the cuttmgs during September, and 
keeping them in a cold frame during the winter. Named sorts may 
still be procured from some hardy plant nurseries. 

Two or three species are useful in the rock garden : asarina (Italian 
Snapdragon) has light, sulphur-coloured flowers, 6 inches, from May 
to September, trailing habit, native of Italy ; plant in warm, sunny 
position ; glutinosa, white suffused lilac. May to July, 6 inches, traihng, 
Spain ; sempervirens, trailing evergreen, with white flowers, produced 
throughout the summer. These are perennials and may be propa- 
gated from seeds or cuttings inserted in a cold frame during late 
summer. 

Apera. — Two species in this family of grasses (Natural Order Gra- 
mineae) are worth cultivating in gardens. The first, Apera arun- 
dinacea, native of New Zealand, grows 2 feet high, and in summer 
bears elegant drooping plumes, some 4 feet in length, of purplish- 
brown colour, which, when dried, are very useful for decoration in 
winter. The plants are perennial, thrive in ordinary garden soil, 
and may be increased by division in autumn or spring, and by seeds 
sown in September in a cold frame. Choose a sheltered rather than 
a wind-swept position for this beautiful New Zealand grass. Apera 
(syn. Agrostis) spica-venti is a European annual grass, with light 
and graceful flower panicle. Sow in September or March. 

Aphyllanihes (Lily Pink). — There is only one species of this 
quaint and interesting plant, namely monspeliensis (Natural Order 
Liliaceae, Lily family). It comes from the Mediterranean region, 
and should be planted in sandy soil in a warm, sunny part of the 
rock garden. The plants grow from 9 to 12 inches in height, and the 
blue or bluish-lilac flowers are borne from June to August on leaf- 



APIOS 37 

like stems. Protect with bracken or a few evergreen twigs during 
severe frosts. Increase by division in March, or sow the seed in 
a cool greenhouse as soon as ripe. 

Apios {Wild Bean). — The chief kind, Apios tuberosa, native of 
North America, is a tuberous-rooted perennial climber (Natural Order 
Leguminosae, the Pea family), of which the stems reach a height of 
from 5 to 8 feet ; the brownish-purple flowers are produced from 
June to August and are fragrant. Plant the roots in warm, sandy 
soil at the foot of a sunny wall or fence, placing a few twiggy Pea- 
sticks over which the growths may ramble. Increase is by division 
of the tubers in spring. 

Aponogeton {Water Hawthorn or Cape Pond Weed). — Apono- 
geton distachyon (Natural Order Alismaceae) is a desirable hardy 
water-plant for pools and ponds. The leaves float on the water. 
The white flowers with black anthers are borne on a two- 
spiked stem, each 3 to 4 inches long. They are deliciously fra- 
grant, with Hawthorn-like perfume. The flowering season extends 
throughout the summer. The Cape Pond Weed is readily propa- 
gated by division of the offsets in spring. To establish it in a pond 
or lake, place half a dozen plants in a basket of loamy soil, and sink 
it in about 2 feet of water in April. The position may be sunny 
or partially shaded, but it should not be where the plants are 
exposed to cold winds. This Aponogeton is native of the Cape of 
Good Hope. 

Aquilegia {Columbine).— K charming group of hardy perennials, 
members of the Buttercup family (Ranunculaceae), which thrive 
equally well in half-shady and shady borders, or, in fact, better than 
in sunny positions. In addition to their value for beds, the rockery, 
and borders, they are charming when naturalised in the wall garden, 
by the side of woodland walks, and on grassy slopes. When cut, 
the flowers lend themselves to light and graceful arrangement. Aqui- 
legias thrive in a moderately rich, rather hght soil. If the ground is 
heavy, work in plenty of old mortar rubble, leaf-mould, and w'ood- 
ashes previous to planting. Increase is by division and seeds. Lift 
and divide the plants preferably during September, which is also the 
best time for replanting. Sow the seed in a cold frame in spring and 
early summer, or on a border outside between April and July. It 
is even worth while sowing seeds of the long-spurred hybrids every 
year, treating them as biennials. The flowering season extends from 
April to July. For general garden decoration the long-spurred 
hybrids are the most popular ; they comprise a wide range of bright 
and pleasing colours. The plants vary from 2 to 3 feet in height. 



38 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

If desired, seeds of these can be obtained in separate colours : white, 
pink shades, blue shades, and yellow. 

The chief species or wild types are : alpina, violet and w^hite, a 
rockery plant, 12 inches, Europe ; caerulea (Rocky Mountain Colum- 
bine), blue and white, 2 feet, North-West America ; Canadensis, 
reddish-orange and yellow, ij to 2 feet, North America ; chrysantha, 
primrose-yellow and golden-yellow, 2 to 3 feet, New Mexico, a beautiful 
border plant, flowering from May to July ; glandulosa, a lovely rock 
garden kind, with dainty blue and white flowers, 12 inches, Siberia ; 
vulgaris (Common Columbine), deep purple, 2 to 2J feet, Europe ; 
this is the short-spurred Columbine which one meets with so frequently 
in old-fashioned borders and cottage gardens ; when undisturbed for 
years the plants increase in size, forming lovely clumps of colour 
during May and June. Munstead Giant White is a fine white variety. 
There are other varieties in numerous colours. Some of the lovely 
rock garden kinds are short-lived, and need to be raised from seed 
frequently. 

Arabis {Rock Cress). — The most useful among the Arabis (Natural 
Order Cruciferae, Wallflower family) are the White Wall Cress, Arabis 
albida and the double white variety, flore pleno. There are, however, 
several other dainty and useful species suitable for the rock garden. 
The plants thrive in well-drained sunny positions in the rock garden, 
and are increased b}' cuttings inserted in a cold frame or handlight 
towards the end of the summer and by division, preferably in early 
autumn. Arabis androsace has white flowers in June, silvery foliage, 
tufted habit, 3 to 4 inches, Asia Minor ; lucida variegata has pretty 
yellow and green foliage ; Billardicrii bears pink blooms in May and 
June, 6 inches. Orient. Arabis albida (White Wall Cress), native of 
the Mediterranean region, and its varieties, are among our best spring- 
flowering plants for beds, borders, and the rougher parts of the rock 
garden. As an edging to borders of spring flowers and in beds with 
Daffodils, Tulips, Wallflowers, etc., they are invaluable. The double 
variety, flore pleno (syns. Corbeille d' Argent and Snowdrift) is the 
best, and lasts in flower all spring and summer, though in fullest 
bloom during April and May. The variety variegata, with yellow 
and green foliage, is particularly effective as an edging. To obtain 
these plants in quantity for bedding, make up a bed of light sandy 
soil in a cold frame, and insert the cuttings during June and July. 

Aralia. — Trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants, members of the 
Aralia family (Araliaceae) from temperate and tropical countries. 
The herbaceous kinds are not of general importance, although Aralia 
cachemirica, cordifolia, and racemosa are sometimes grown in the 




BORDER OF TUFTED PANSIES EDGED WITH THRIFT AND 
BACKED BY A ROSE-COVERED WALL 



ARAUCARIA 39 

wild garden for the sake of their ornamental leaves. Aralia chinensis, 
a Chinese shrub or small tree, is grown in shrubberies for its large 
handsome, many-lobed leaves, which terminate stout, gaunt branches. 
The variety albo-marginata bears ornamental silver- variegated leaves, 
and there is also a form with golden-variegated leaves. Propagation 
is by seed except for the varieties, which are increased by grafting. 
Araha spinosa, the Hercules Club or Angelica Tree of the Eastern 
United States, also bears very large decorative leaves, and in autumn 
immense panicles of cream-coloured flowers. Neither kind requires 
pruning, and both thrive in ordinary garden soil in sunny positions: 
The tender sorts are grown in greenhouses, and some are highly 
esteemed for decorative work, their foliage being peculiarly light and 
graceful. Perhaps the best for this purpose is Aralia Veitchii, a 
native of New Caledonia ; its bronzy leaves are divided into numerous 
fine segments so long as the plant is confined in small pots, but if 
planted in a border of rich soil they undergo a great change, for the 
leaves become 2 feet or more across, with segments 12 or 15 inches 
long by 2 to 3 inches wide. Another tender kind is found in Aralia 
elegantissima. Both these are grafted upon commoner kinds, thrive 
in 3 parts fibrous loam and i part leaf-mould or peat, with a little 
sand, and require a warm temperature and moist atmosphere. 

Araucaria. — This group belongs to the cone-bearing trees 
(Coniferae), and is composed of evergreen trees found in two distinct 
parts of the world. One species, Araucaria imbricata, occurs in Chili 
and Tierra del Fuego ; another, brasiliana, in the mountains of Southern 
Brazil ; whilst the remainder are found in Queensland, Norfolk Island, 
and New Caledonia. The first-named only is hardy in the British 
Isles, but it may be grown almost anywhere, where moist but well- 
drained soil, moist climatic conditions, and a moderately pure atmo- 
sphere prevail. In such places it forms a handsome though some- 
what formal tree, but on dry, gravelly soil it soon loses its lower 
branches and becomes an eyesore. It is essentially a tree for the 
garden, its peculiar habit and leaf arrangement preventing it from 
grouping weU with native trees. The common name of Chili Pine 
has been given to it in its native country, whilst it is here familiarly 
known as Monkey Puzzle. Although often planted in small front 
gardens, it is totally unsuited to such a purpose. Male and female 
flowers are usually borne by different trees, the latter being followed 
by cones as large as ordinary coconuts. They contain many large 
edible seeds, which may be used for propagation if necessary. The 
only pruning required is the removal of dead branches. Araucaria 
excelsa, the Norfolk Island Pine, is frequently grown in green- 



40 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

houses as an ornamental plant, and many thousands are sold annually 
for house decoration. Although a large tree naturally, it succeeds 
quite well in small pots, and is generally admired by reason of its 
symmetrical habit and bright green leaves. Cuttings root quite readily 
in sandy soil in a closed case in spring, but they must be made 
from upright shoots taken from plants which have been cut back. 
Three parts loam to i part of leaf-mould or peat suits it. Other 
useful sorts are : Bidwillii, Cunninghamii, and Rulei. The timber 
of most kinds is of value for building purposes. 

Araujia. — Climbing plants (Natural Order Asclepiadaceae) usually 
grown in a warm, sunny greenhouse, though one species may be 
cultiv-ated against south or west walls in the South of England, Ireland, 
and some parts of Western Scotland. This is Araujia sericifera, which 
grows quite freely in a cool greenhouse or out-of-doors in such situa- 
tions as referred to. It is native of Peru and Brazil, and bears white 
flowers in July. It is propagated by cuttings of young shoots in 
spring and should be planted in a compost of 3 parts loam to i 
of leaf -mould or peat. Prune fairly severely in February. 

Arbor-Vitae. — (See Thuya.) 

Arbutus. — This is an important group (belonging to the Heather 
family, Ericaceae), insomuch that it is composed of ornamental, 
free-flowering evergreen trees or shrubs, which are for the most part 
hardy in the South of England and Ireland. A few kinds, however, 
are from warm temperate regions, and require greenhouse shelter. 
All of them object to soil containing lime. Sandy peat or loam, which 
is naturally moist but well drained, and moist climatic conditions are 
generally desirable. Propagation may be effected by means of seeds 
or layers, whilst varieties are sometimes increased by grafting. The 
common Arbutus Unedo stands pruning well, though regular pruning 
is not necessary after the bushes have once formed a good founda- 
tion. April is a good time for pruning. It is a wise plan to place 
the plants in permanent positions while they are quite small, as they 
sometimes transplant rather badly when 6 or 8 feet high. They are 
found in Southern Europe, the Levant, the Canary Islands, North 
America, and Chili. 

The best kinds are : Andrachne, a small tree, native of the region 
of the Levant, peculiar by reason of its bark being shed each year 
in strips ; the thick oval leaves are prominent, and the panicles 
of cream-coloured flowers are showy in early spring. Furiens is a 
Chilian species suitable for outdoor cultivation in the South of 
England ; of bushy habit, it bears small leaves and axillary inflores- 
cences of white flowers. Menziesii, the Madrono of the Californian 



ARCTOSTAPHYLOS 41 

forests, grows into an extremely handsome tree of considerable size in 
its native country ; here it forms a tree of moderate size with large 
oblong leaves, and bears large panicles of cream-coloured flowers in 
July ; the bark peels off the trunk and branches annually. Unedo, 
the common " Strawberry Tree," is a native of Southern Europe, 
but is also found wild in Ireland ; sometimes met with in tree form, 
it is more familiar as a large bush with dark-green oval leaves ; the 
panicles of cream or reddish flowers are borne in autumn, to be fol- 
lowed a year later by handsome, round, scarlet and orange fruits. 
There are numerous varieties, of which the most distinct is rubra or 
Croomii, which bears red flowers. Arbutus hybrida is a hybrid 
between Andrachne and Unedo. 

Arctostaphylos. — A group of shrubs belonging to the Heather 
family (Ericaceae), which vary considerably in habit, sometimes form- 
ing very large bushes, and at other times occurring as prostrate plants 
scarcely 2 inches above the ground. They thrive in loam or peat, 
and whilst one or two kinds are widely distributed throughout the 
cooler parts of the Northern Hemisphere, the majority are natives 
of the Pacific Coast of North America. The traihng kinds can be 
increased by cuttings, others by seeds. No pruning is necessary. 
The commonest kind is Arctostaphylos Uva-ursi, the Bearberry of 
the Northern Hemisphere and a native of Scotland ; it is a traihng 
evergreen, which bears pink flowers in spring ; both this and alpina 
are suitable for the rockery. Manzanita is perhaps the best of the 
Californian species ; it is a vigorous, upright bush, with thick, attrac- 
tive leaves, and bears pink flowers in terminal inflorescences in 
spring. Other useful kinds are : pungens, tomentosa, and viscida. 

Arctotis. — Two species of this interesting Cape family of plants 
are suitable for outdoor cultivation in summer. They belong to the 
Daisy family (Compositae). Arctotis speciosa (syn. breviscapa) is 
really a half-hardy perennial, but being readily raised from seeds it 
is more often treated as an annual, the seeds being sown in a warm 
greenhouse during February or March, and the young plants put 
out on a sunny border early in June. The flower-heads are rich 
orange, showy, and freely produced during July and August. It is 
a stemless plant with spreading pinnatifid leaves, and together with 
the flowers is only 6 inches high. The second species, Arctotis 
grandis, is sometimes referred to as the Blue Marguerite ; it is a 
half-hardy annual with grey, pubescent foliage and stems ; the large 
Daisy-like flowers are white with a tinge of blue, the centre of the 
flowers mauve, and the outside of the petals greyish-blue. The 
plants are very free-flowering from July to September or October, 



42 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

and about 2 feet in height. Sow the seeds outside towards the end 
of April, where the plants are to flower, or during March or April 
under glass. Plant on a warm, sunny border or on a sunny rockery ; 
the soil should be light and well drained. Both species are natives 
of South Africa. 

Ardleia. — The Ardisias (Natural Order Myrsineae) consist chiefly 
of shrubby plants from tropical and sub-tropical countries ; one species, 
however, Ardisia japonica, from China and Japan, may be grown 
out-of-doors in the warmer parts of the country. Of the other kinds, 
crenata from China and Oliveri from Costa Rica are best worth grow- 
ing. They require a warm greenhouse temperature. Ardisia crenata 
is much admired during autumn and winter by reason of the won- 
derful crop of rich red berries which are well set off by the dark ever- 
green leaves. 

Arenaria {Sandwort). — The Arenarias or Sandworts are dwarf- 
tufted or creeping alpine plants for the rock garden and the front 
of flower borders. They belong to the Pink family (Caryophyllaceae), 
and flower during spring and summer. Increase is by seeds sown in 
a cold frame during spring and early summer, by division of the 
plants in autumn, preferably September, and by cuttings inserted 
in pots of sandy soil and placed in a cold frame during July or August. 
Choose an open position, and plant outside during September and 
March. The Sandworts thrive in rather light loamy soil in which 
are mixed leaf-mould and broken stone. They are suitable for placing 
near large boulders, so that the growths may trail over the face 
of the latter. The following Arenarias are hardy perennials : bal- 
earica (Creeping Sandwort) forms close tuft-like carpet of vivid green 
studded with white flowers in May, Balearic Isles ; grandiflora, a 
trailing rock plant, 4 to 6 inches high, with comparatively large 
white flowers in spring, Europe ; laricifolia forms a green carpet, 
and bears white flowers in June, Europe ; montana (Mountain Sand- 
wort) bears fairly large snow-white flowers from June to August, 
6 inches, invaluable in the rock garden, where it yields a profusion 
of blossom, Spain, etc. ; purpurascens, purplish-white or lilac. May 
to June, 3 inches, close-tufted growth, Pyrenees ; tetraquetra, white, 
June to July, 3 inches, Pyrenees ; verna, tufts of green foliage starred 
with white flowers, in May, Europe and North America. Arenaria 
balearica will cover a shady rock face delightfully. The showiest 
of all is montana. 

Argemone {Prickly Poppy). — These interesting and showy plants 
(Natural Order Papaveraceae), with delicate Poppy-like flowers, are 
natives of California and Mexico. They are best treated as half- 





THE PASQUE FLOWER (ANEMONE 
PULSATILLA) 



ANOMATHECA CRUENTA. WITH 
ROSE-RED BLOOMS 





A FRILLED VARIETY OF TUBEROUS 
BEGONIA 



SWAN RIVER DAISY (BRACHYCOME 
IBERIDIFOLIA) 



ARISTOLOCHIA 43 

hardy annuals, sowing the seeds under glass during March and April, 
or on a warm, sunny border out-of-doors in April. The soil should 
be fairly rich but well drained, and the position must be sunny. 
Two chief kinds are : grandiflora, large white flowers, July to Septem- 
ber, spiny, whitish foliage, 2| to 3 feet, California ; and mexicana, 
pale yellow, July to September, Poppy-like fohage, 2 feet, Mexico. 

Aristolochia. — This family (Natural Order Aristolochiaceae) is 
composed of climbing plants which have usually woody branches, 
although a few produce new branches yearly from the rootstock, 
the old ones dying down in autumn. The majority are found in 
tropical countries, such as Brazil, Mexico, Guatemala, West Africa, 
Philippine Islands, etc., although a few have appeared from temperate 
cHmes, notably the United States, Southern Europe, California, and 
China. All are remarkable for their curious-shaped and usually 
evil-smelling flowers. In some instances the blossoms are small ; in 
other cases very large with wonderful tail-like appendages and extra- 
ordinary colouring. The hardy kinds thrive in well-drained loamy 
soil, and soon cover a considerable area with luxuriant foliage ; the 
flowers are not conspicuous however. Propagation is by cuttings 
in summer, and the branches may be pruned moderately in February 
if outgrowing their space. The tender kinds may be grown in pots 
or borders and trained to the rafters of greenhouses or stoves. They 
are usually propagated by cuttings, and are kept within bounds by 
pruning the secondary branches back to within a bud or tw^o of the 
older wood in January or February each year. 

The following are hardy kinds : Aristolochia californica, a vigor- 
ous-growing Californian plant with hairy leaves and small yellowish 
flowers ; moupinensis is a new species from China, which promises to 
be of an ornamental character ; Sipho, a very hardy kind from the 
Southern United States, and the commonest of all ; it is sometimes 
called the Dutchman's Pipe by reason of the curious shape of its 
small brownish flowers, which, like the others, open in early 
summer. 

Armeria {Thrift or Sea Pink). — These are attractive dwarf 
perennials (Natural Order Plumbaginaceae), suitable for the rock 
garden or as an edging to a border, while one or two of the taller 
kinds are good border plants. They are easily grown, thriving in 
most soils and positions, being especially good in well-drained ground 
and in seaside gardens. Increase is usually by division in September 
or March, which is also the best time for planting. Most kinds pro- 
duce seeds, which should be sown in April or May in a cold frame. 
The most useful species and varieties are : bracteata rubra, a variety 



44 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

with bright red flower-heads, July to August, 12 inches; caespitosa, 
a miniature plant with pink llowcrs. May to August, 4 inches, Spain 
and Portugal, one of the best Thrifts for rock crevices and fissures ; 
juncea, a miniature kind, pink flowers. May to July, bright green 
foliage, 4 inches, Southern France ; latifolia, rosy-lilac, May to August, 
12 inches, Portugal ; certain varieties of this are very useful as an 
edging to a border, notably alba, white ; rosea, deep pink ; rubra 
(syn. cephalotes rubra), rosy-crimson, the latter bemg a great favourite 
for cutting. 

Armeria maritima (syn. vulgaris), the Cliff Rose or Cushion Pink, 
is a wild British plant, very useful as an edging, it bears pale rose 
flowers from June to August, g inches ; Laucheana, rich rose or rosy- 
crimson ; purpurea, lilac-rose ; and alba, white, are good varieties. 
Armeria plantaginea has rose-coloured blooms from May to July, 
12 inches, Europe ; its variety, splendens, bears vivid rose or rosy- 
crimson flowers. 

Arnebia {Prophet Flower). — The kind most generally cultivated 
is Arnebia echioides, another name for which is Macrotomia echioides. 
It is native of Armenia, and a member of the Borage family (Boragin- 
aceae). This is a valuable rockery plant, and must also find a place 
in a border of choice hardy perennials. The flowers are tubular, 
in tenninal spikes, rich yellow, with five dark-brown spots, which 
disappear as the blooms become older, while the general colour changes 
to primrose-yellow. The plants are from i foot to li feet high, the 
flowering season lasting from April to August. Plant in liglit, well- 
drained loamy soil in March or early April. Increase is by cuttings 
inserted in pots of sandy soil during August, and placed in a cool 
greenhouse or frame ; also by cuttings made of the thicker pieces 
of root taken off at almost any time and put in pots of sandy soil 
in a warm greenhouse. Those who have no plants can sometimes 
purchase seeds, which ought to be sown in a slightly heated green- 
house in March or April. A second species, Arnebia cornuta, is an 
annual from Turkestan ; the flowers are yellow with five black spots 
on each ; it blooms from July to September, and is about 12 inches 
high ; sow seeds under glass in March, and put out the seedlings 
in May. 

Arrhenatherum {Oat Grass). — Arrhenatherum avenaceum is a 
tall, British grass (Natural Order Gramineae), common in the hedge- 
row and woodland ; a variety of this with swollen bases to the stem, 
named variety bulbosum. is known as the Onion Couch. Neither is 
worthy of a place in gardens, but they are mentioned because an alhed 
variety, bulbosum var. variegatum, is a beautiful variegated grass. 



ARTEMISIA 45 

useful for the front of borders, as an edging to summer beds, and for 
association with coloured foliage plants. Ordinary soil is suitable, 
and the plants can be rapidly increased by division in early spring. 

Arrowhead.— (Se^ Sagittaria.) 

Artemisia {Wormwood). — Hardy herbaceous and shrubby plants, 
with fragrant ornamental foliage, several, including Artemisia Abro- 
tanum, are valued as medicinal plants. They belong to the Daisy 
family (Compositae). The Wormwoods thrive in ordinary soil, pre- 
ferring that which is rather light. The shrubby kinds are increased 
by cuttings, inserted in a cold frame during August and September. 
The herbaceous perennials are propagated by division of the roots, 
preferably in February and March. The chief kinds are : Abrotanum 
(Southernwood), yellow flowers, August to September, fragrant hoary 
foliage, 3 feet or more in height, Europe, Temperate Asia ; Absinthium 
(Common Wormwood), yellow, August, i| feet, Europe — the variety 
argentea (variegata) is an attractive plant, with silvery-white fohage, 
useful on a sunny rockery ; dracunculoides (Tarragon Plant), whitish- 
green, July, 2 feet, North America ; lactifiora, creamy-white, late 
summer, 4 to 6 feet, a splendid border plant ; Stelleriana, yellow, 
summer, conspicuous white foliage, a useful trailing plant for the 
ledges of a rockery border or sloping bank, 6 inches, North America ; 
and tridentata, yellow, summer, a shrubby plant with attractive 
hoary white leaves, 2 to 4 feet or more, North America. 

Arum {Cuckoo Pint). — On a shady or half-shady border, and 
among hardy ferns where there is a fair amount of moisture, several 
of the Arums (Natural Order Aroideae) deserve attention. They are 
bulbous or tuberous rooted, thrive in light leafy soil, and are in- 
creased by offsets taken off in early autumn, this being also the best 
time for replanting, though it may also be done in spring. The three 
species easiest to obtain are : Dracunculus (Dragon or Snake Plant, 
also grown in some gardens as Dracunculus vulgaris), purple-red and 
black flowers, July, marbled stems, elegant pedate leaves, 2 to 3 feet, 
Southern Europe ; italicum (Italian Arum), greenish-white or creamy- 
white, March to April, hastate, green leaves, i^ to 2 feet, usually 
bears attractive scarlet fruits in autumn, Europe ; sanctum (syn. 
palaestinum), the Black Arum, purple-black, May to June, i^ feet, 
a remarkable plant from the Orient, requires a warm, sheltered posi- 
tion, preferably at the foot of a south-west wall or fence. 

Arundinaria. — This is an important group (Natural Order 
Gramineae), as it includes a considerable number of the hardy Bam- 
boos. The hardy kinds are principally natives of China and Japan ; 
one, however, has been introduced from the United States, and several 



46 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

others, which are hardy in the mildest parts of the British Isles, are 
from the Himalaya. Bamboos are a welcome addition to most 
gardens, but they are not suitable for indiscriminate planting in 
every direction ; rather confine them to one position, and, if possible, 
let that part be shut away to some extent from the rest of the garden. 
The reason for this is that although from July until February Bamboos 
possess a grace and beauty unequalled by any other evergreen, from 
February until the end of June they are often unsightly, for the cold 
winds of spring, together with the natural decay of the leaves, turn 
the rich green colour to dingy brown. 

They require rich loamy soil which is constantly moist, and, if 
possible, should be planted in the vicinity of a pool or stream. In 
dry weather provision must be made for watering them regularly, 
otherwise they will soon suffer. Transplanting should be carried 
out during May or September, the former month being preferable. 
When planting, a little leaf-mould may be placed about the roots 
with advantage, and in the case of established plants a surface dress- 
ing of cow manure, applied in May, will do good. Propagation is by 
division of the clumps. If the divisions or pieces are large they may 
be planted in the open at once, but if small they had better be estab- 
lished in pots in a close and moist greenhouse before being placed 
out-of-doors. As a rule, plants which flower die within a short period, 
therefore steps should be taken to save seed. This is sown under 
glass when ripe, and the seedlings are grown in nursery beds until they 
are large enough to transfer to permanent positions. Pruning is an 
important item, and takes the form of removing the older shoots 
right to the base in April. A guide as to those which ought to be 
removed may be found in the condition of the tops ; those that are 
becoming thin and dry ought to be cut away. Be careful to remove 
them to the ground line, and do not leave them 6 or 8 inches in length, 
as is often done. There are a few kinds, such as pygmaea and Veitchii, 
which are improved by being cut down to the ground each year. 
Simply cut them over with a pair of shears. The chief kinds are : 
Arundinaria anceps, an upright plant of elegant habit, growing 8 to lo 
feet high — it spreads rapidly ; auricoma, a Japanese species, with 
golden- variegated leaves — its height is about 4 feet ; falcata and 
Falconeri, two Himalayan semi-tender kinds, grow 20 to 25 feet high ; 
Fortunei, 3 feet, has silver variegated leaves ; Hindsii graminea, 12 to 
15 feet, is of upright habit ; japonica, 12 to 15 feet, has large leaves, 
and is very hardy ; nitida, 8 to 12 feet, is of peculiarly graceful outline, 
and one of the daintiest of all Bamboos ; pygmaea, 12 to 15 inches, 
forms a dense carpet ; Simoni, 15 to 18 feet, is of upright and stately 




l-hoto: F. M. ^i.h^u/c 

A ROCKY BANK PLANTED WITH SEA PINK OR THRIFT 
(ARMERIA VULGARIS) 



ARUNDO 47 

outline : Veitchii is a curious plant, 12 to 15 inches high, of dense 
habit ; the margins of the leaves always die early, and from a dis- 
tance a plant has the appearance of being variegated. 

Arundo {Giant Reed). — Vigorous grasses (Natural Order Gram- 
ineae), effective in the shrubbery border, the centre of a flower-bed, 
by the waterside, and in a large bog garden. They are increased 
by division in spring, which is also the best time for replanting. The 
Reeds delight in a loamy soil, not of a clayey nature. Arundo (Cor- 
taderia) conspicua (New Zealand Reed) has silky plumes, July to 
October, 6 to 8 feet or more in height ; it is rather tender, and should 
be planted in sheltered spots and protected with bracken in winter, 
except in the south and west, where it is splendid in full exposure. 
Arundo Donax (Provence Reed) bears brownish panicles in autumn, 
8 to 12 feet, Southern Europe, requires protection in exposed gardens ; 
the variety versicolor is a smaller plant, of which the leaves are 
banded with white, needs the protection of a frame in many gardens 
in winter. Arundo Phragmites aurea variegata (variegated Spire 
Reed) is a golden variegated variety of our Common Waterside Reed, 
growing 3 to 4 feet high. 

Asarum {Asarahacca). — Hardy herbaceous perennials (Natural 
Order Aristolochiaceae), more curious than attractive, suitable for 
the front of a shady border, among hardy ferns, or a shady corner of 
the rock garden. Asarum europaeum, 12 inches, is the best-known 
kind ; it grows wild in some parts of Britain, but most probably 
has been introduced ; it has kidney-shaped, violet-hke leaves, borne 
on a creeping rootstock, from which also spring in May curious, 
solitary, drooping, purple-green flowers. Increase is by division in 
autumn ; ordinary garden soil is suitable. 

Asclepias {Swallow Wort, Milk Weed). — North American border 
plants (Natural Order Asclepiadaceae), delighting in a peaty or 
leafy soil. They are propagated by division of the roots in spring, 
and in one or two instances from seeds sown in a cool greenhouse 
or frame in spring or when ripe. The chief kinds are : incamata, 
purplish-red, 2 to 3 feet, July (variety pulchra is a taller plant with 
crimson flowers) ; tuberosa (the Butterfly Weed), orange, July to 
September, ij to 2 feet ; speciosa, purple, fragrant, autumn, 3 feet. 

Ash Tree. — {See Fraxinus.) 

Aspen — {See PopuLUS Tremula.) 

Asperula {Woodruff).— UseivX hardy perennials and annuals 
(NaturaJ Order Rubiaceae) for the rock garden, or an edging to beds 
and borders. They are easily grown, thriving in most soils and 
situations. The annuals are increased by seeds sown in autumn 



48 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

or spring, and the perennials by division of the roots in September 
or March. Asperula azurea setosa is a popular hardy annual, 9 to 
12 inches high, native of Syria, with fragrant pale blue flowers ; if 
sown in autumn the plants commence to flower in May ; those sown 
in spring bloom from June onwards. Asperula odorata (Sweet Wood- 
ruff) bears fragrant snowy- white flowers in May and June, 6 to 9 
inches, Europe, including Britain ; it is pretty in shrubbery borders, 
or as an edging to a shady border. Other kinds are : hexaphylla, a 
tall, slender-growing plant with white flowers, June to August, 18 to 
30 inches, Italy and Hungary ; longifolia, white, fragrant, June, 
I foot. Eastern Europe. Gussonii (syn. nitida), a low-growing plant 
with small white flowers, June to August, Sicily ; and suberosa, silverj'- 
white foliage, pink flowers, June to August, 3 or 4 inches, Greece. 
The two last-named are charming rock garden plants, needing gritty 
soil with which a little peat is mixed. 

Asphodel ine {Leafless Asphodel). — Asphodeline, member of the 
Lily family (Liliaceae), is allied to the Asphodel, but is easily dis- 
tinguished by its leafless flower stems. The several kinds are hardy 
herbaceous perennials thriving in ordinary soil in partial shade or 
sun. Plant in autumn or spring. Propagation is by seeds and 
division of the roots, preferably in spring. The best kind is 
Asphodeline lutea, bearing fragrant yellow star-shaped flowers on 
stately spikes, 2\ to 4 feet high, from June to August, Mediterranean 
region ; flore pleno is a useful double variety. Asphodeline liburnica 
has yellow flowers, striped with green in summer, 18 to 24 inches, 
South-East Europe. 

Asphodel us {Asphodel). — These are hardy perennials with narrow, 
grass-like leaves and tuberous roots (Natural Order Liliaceae), valu- 
able for the flower and shrubbery border, also for naturalising in the 
wild garden. Plant in ordinary garden soil in autumn or spring. 
Increase is by division of the roots in March or by seeds when they 
can be obtained. The Asphodels are favourites in some cottage 
borders and old-fashioned gardens. The best sorts are : albus, white. 
May to June, 2 feet, Southern Europe ; fistulosus (Onion Asphodel), 
white, July to September, i| feet, Mediterranean region ; and ramosus 
(King's Spear), pure white, June to August, 4 feet. Southern Europe. 

Aspidium {Buckler or Shield Fern). — One of the most useful classes 
of hardy ferns (Natural Order Filices) ; they thrive under ordinary 
garden conditions in sun or shade and in most soils. The Shield 
Ferns are evergreen, thus being particularly useful for odd corners 
in the garden, and provide attractive greenery in what might other- 
wise be unsightly and bare places. Increase is by division in spring. 



ASPLENIUM 49 

which is also the best time for planting. A second method is to 
place some of the older fronds, bearing little plants, on soil in shallow 
boxes or pots. Many fern enthusiasts raise large numbers of the 
Hard Shield Fern (Aspidium aculeatum) and the Soft Shield Fern 
(Aspidium angulare) from spores in the hope of obtaining new varieties, 
of which we already have many of great beauty. A few varieties of 
Aspidium angulare are cruciato-polydactylum, divisilobum foliosum, 
grande, laxum, plumosum, proliferum, and Wollaston's variety. 
Varieties of Aspidium aculeatum are cruciatum, polydactylum and 
pilosum. Other useful hardy Aspidiums are lonchitis (Holly Fern), 
British ; munitum, from North America, and setosum, from Japan. 
The various kinds of Aspidium are also known as Polystichum. 

Asplenium {Lady Fern). — These ferns (Natural Order Filices) 
require similar treatment to, and are propagated by division and 
spores in the same way as, the Shield Ferns. The most important 
species is Asplenium Filix-foemina (the Lady Fern), also known as 
Athyrium Filix-foemina. The numerous varieties of this are among 
the most highly prized of British ferns ; ten of the best are coronatum, 
cristatum, cruciato-cristatum, cruciatum, Fieldiae, Frizelhae, percris- 
tatum, plumosum, polydactylum, and Victoriae ; they have fronds 
from I foot to 3 feet long. For planting in the rock garden 
and in old walls the following Spleenworts are deserving of attention : 
adiantum-nigrum (the Black Spleenwort) ; Ruta-muraria (Wall Rue 
Spleenwort) ; and Trichomanes (Common Spleenwort). All are 
British ferns. 

Aster {Michaelmas Daisy, Starwort). — It is only during com- 
paratively recent years that the value of the Michaelmas Daisy 
(Natural Order Compositae, Daisy family) for the decoration of 
the garden and home has been fully appreciated. From August 
to November this flower is invaluable, providing masses of colour 
in the garden, while providing an endless supply of cut bloom. There 
are varieties for all kinds of positions, varying in height from i foot 
to 6 or 7 feet, and flowers varying from the large blooms of Climax, 
2 inches across, to the dainty cloud-like masses of the varieties Freedom 
and Delight. The Starworts thrive in most soils and situations, in 
sun or partial shade. Previous to planting, trench the ground i| feet 
deep, working in plenty of decayed manure. Increase is by division 
of the roots from November to March, by seeds sown in a cool green- 
house or frame during February or March, and by cuttings in spring 
when the young shoots are i| to 2 inches in height. Lifting and 
replanting is desirable in alternate years, or in the case of vigorous 
sorts it may even be done with good results every year. A few of the 

E 



50 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

best sorts are : Acris (i), lavender-blue, 2 feet ; Amellus (2), violet- 
blue, i| feet ; var. bessarabicus (2), clear violet-blue, 2 feet ; Beauty 
of Colwall (2), lavender-blue, double, 4^ feet ; Climax (3). light blue, 
yellow centre, very large flowers ; Delight (2), tiny white flowers, 
lovely sprays, 3 feet ; Esmc (i), white, 2 feet ; Ideal (2), pale lavender, 
profusion of small flowers, 3J feet ; Hilda Morris (2), large, pale blue, 
4 feet ; Keston Blue (3), 5 feet ; Lil Fardell (2), rose-pink, large 
flowers, 5 feet ; Mrs. J. F. Rayner (3), rosy-crimson, 5 feet ; Perry's 
Favourite (2), soft lilac-pink, 2J feet ; Maidenhood (2), small white 
flowers in long sprays, 5 feet ; subcaeruleus, violet-blue, a summer 
flowering Starwort for the rock garden and border, i foot ; Wliite 
Spray (2), large white flowers, 5 feet ; and William Marshall (2), 
large, soft blue, 4 feet. The figures relate to the period of flowering ; 
those marked (i) open first, then come those marked (2), and finally 
the remaining ones (3). 

Astilbe {Goat's Beard). — These are hardy herbaceous perennials 
(Natural Order Saxifragaceae) grown in some gardens under the name 
of Spiraea. The plants thrive in rich, moist garden soil, and are 
suitable for half-shady positions and bog gardens and pond 
sides, but they will thrive quite well in sunny positions if given an 
abundance of water in summer. The feathery plumes of white or 
pink flowers, together with the graceful pinnate leaves, render the 
plants very handsome. Spring is the best time to lift, divide, and 
plant, though it may be done at any time between October and March 
when the weather is favourable. The best kinds are : Davidii, rosy- 
crimson, August to September, 4 feet, China ; grandis, white, August 
to September, 4 to 6 feet, China ; japonica, white, June, 2 feet, Japan, 
a beautiful plant, largely grown in pots for greenhouse decoration, 
though equally valuable outside in beds and borders ; there are 
numerous varieties, compactum, multiflorum, W. E. Gladstone, etc. 
Queen Alexandra and Peach Blossom are two beautiful pink-flowered 
kinds raised in gardens between japonica and Davidii ; they grow 
about 2 feet in height and flower in June and July ; rivularis (Common 
Goat's Beard), has white branching plumes, June to July, 4 feet, 
Himalaya ; var. major is an improved variety ; Thunbergii, var. 
Moerheimi, is pure white, July to August, 4 to 5 feet, Japan. 

Astragalus.— Shrubs and herbaceous plants, members of the 
Pea family (Leguminosae), many of no horticultural value, and others 
suitable for the rock garden or herbaceous border. They are found 
in Europe, Asia, North America, etc., and several are of economic 
importance. From the branches of Astragalus gummifer and others 
a viscid gum exudes ; this is collected in Asia Minor, Greece, and 




ONE OF THE SANDWORTS (ARENARIA LARICIFOLIA) 




AN EVERLASTING (HELICHRYSUM BELLIDIQIDES; 



ASTRANTIA 51 

other countries, and forms the Gum Tragacanth of commerce. The 
various kinds of Astragalus grow in rather poor soil, but are not 
averse to that of good quality. The shrubby sorts are quite dwarf- 
tufted plants, and require no pruning. Propagation is usually by 
seeds sown as soon as ripe in a cold frame. The best are : Echinus, 
a dwarf-tufted, spiny shrub from Syria ; and Tragacantha, which 
grows 12 to 15 inches high, forming a dense mass of stunted, spiny 
branches. The Pea-shaped flowers are pale lilac in colour and borne 
in May. 

Astrantia (Master-wort). — Three species of Astrantia (Natural 
Order Umbelliferae) may worthily find a place in gardens, for they 
thrive in shade and poor soil, conditions that are unfavourable to 
many plants. They are herbaceous perennials, with leafy bracts that 
add beauty to the flower stems. Propagation is by division in autumn 
or spring and by seeds sown as soon as ripe or in spring under glass 
or outside. The chief kinds are : carniolica, greenish-white, June 
to July, very free-flowering, i foot to 2 feet, Eastern Europe ; helle- 
borifoha, pink, June to August, 2 feet, Caucasus ; major (Black 
Masterwort), pink and white, surrounded by bracts similar in colour, 
which continue showy until late autumn, June to August, i| to 2 feet, 
Europe. 

Athrotaxis. — This is a small but interesting group of cone-bear- 
ing trees (Natural Order Coniferae), the three kinds in cultivation 
being natives of Tasmania. They are Athrotaxis cupressoides, laxi- 
folia, and selaginoides. All are graceful and ornamental plants, but 
rather rare. They are not suitable for general cultivation in the 
British Isles, but grow quite well in places where the soil is moist 
but naturally well drained, and where the climatic conditions are rather 
moist. There are many suitable places for them in the West of 
England, Ireland, and Scotland. It is little use, however, planting 
them in dry or limy soil. Propagation may be carried on by cuttings, 
but the best plants are raised from seeds. No regular pruning is 
required. Although they grow into large trees in their native country, 
they are only bushes here. 

Atriplex (Mountain Spinach).— Some eight or ten species (Natural 
Order Chenopodiaceae) may be found represented in a botanic garden. 
Only two of these are worthy of cultivation in gardens generally. 
Atriplex hortensis (Mountain Spinach) from Northern Asia is culti- 
vated in the kitchen garden, the leaves being prepared in the same 
way as Spinach. For flower beds and borders a variety of this 
(Atriplex hortensis var. rubra or atrosanguinea) is grown ; it is a hardy 
annual, and is known as the Red Mountain Spinach in reference to 



52 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

the highly coloured red foliage which with age assumes a purple tint. 
The plants grow some 4 feet in height, and may be effectively planted 
in groups in the mixed flower border, or in summer bedding. A 
light, rich soil is the most suitable. Sow the seeds under glass, or 
outside in March and April. A few of the shrubby kinds are worth 
growing for the sake of their greyish or silvery leaves, being service- 
able on this account for planting with other coloured foliage shrubs 
for summer effect. They are also of value for planting on sand dunes 
near the sea, as they do not object to a saline atmosphere, nor to 
salt in the soil. The branches may be cut over each spring. Good 
kinds are Breweri, canescens, confertifolia, and Halimus. 

Atropa {Deadly Nightshade). — The only species of note is Atropa 
Belladonna, a native of Europe, including Britain and some parts 
of Asia. It belongs to the Potato family (Solanaceae). It is a 
herbaceous perennial, the stems of which grow to a height of 3 to 
4 feet and die down in late autumn. The drooping bell-shaped flowers 
borne in summer are purplish-brown, f to i inch in length, surrounded 
by a persistent leafy calyx. Within this, following the flower, is a 
shining black berry the size of a small cherry. All parts of the plant 
are poisonous. The Deadly Nightshade grows in waste, stony places 
in this country, showing partiality for a chalky soil ; it is of no decora- 
tive value. 

Aubrietia (Purple Rock Cress). — It must be a very small garden 
indeed which can afford to do without a few plants of the Purple 
Rock Cress, which belongs to the Wallflower family (Cruciferae). 
They are dwarf evergreen plants indispensable in the rock garden, 
valuable as an edging to beds and borders, and effective for spring 
bedding. The greatest wealth of colour is produced from April to 
June, but, as a rule, the flowering season of most of the sorts extends 
from March to August ; the plants grow about 3 or 4 inches high. 
As will be seen by the appended list of sorts, the colours include 
numerous rich and delicate tints from white to deep purple and crim- 
son, including rose, mauve, and lilac. There are three ways of pro- 
pagating Aubrietias, by seeds, cuttings, and division. Sow the seeds 
during April or May in a cold frame, insert cuttings in boxes of sandy 
soil in a cold frame in July and August, lift, divide, and replant the 
roots from July to September. Those who are able to afford the 
time and space required grow seedling Aubrietias and others propa- 
gated from cuttings, on a spare piece of ground for twelve to fifteen 
months before planting them permanently — a work that is best done 
in September or October. Old plants may be divided in March and 
grown in a reserve border for six months. Ordinary, rather light. 



AUCUBA 53 

garden soil is suitable for Aubrietias; The sorts grown in gardens 
are varieties of Aubrietia deltoidea, a native of Southern Europe ; they 
must be planted in sunny positions. Twelve of the best sorts are : 
Bridesmaid, blush ; Campbelli, violet-purple ; Dr. Mules, rich purple ; 
Fire King, crimson ; graeca, pale lavender ; H. Marshall, mauve ; 
Lavender, lavender-blue ; Leichtlini, rosy-red ; Moerheimi, soft rose ; 
Mrs. Lloyd Edwards, crimson ; Pritchard's Ai, purple ; and tauricola 
alba, white. 

Aucuba. — The principal kind in this group of shrubs (members 
of the Dogwood family, Cornaceae) is japonica, a Japanese bush 
which is widely grown in the British Isles. When first introduced 
it was considered to be tender and was grown under glass, but it 
has since proved itself to be as hardy as the Common Laurel. There 
are green-leaved and golden- variegated-leaved kinds ; the latter have 
been most widely planted, and have been over-done in some gardens, 
their spotted leaves becoming wearisome. Those with green leaves, 
however, ought to be planted more frequently. Male and female 
flowers are borne on different plants, and it is necessary to grow them 
together if a crop of red berries, which are a feature of the shrubs in 
winter, is desired. Some people, however, convey pollen to the 
female flowers from male bushes growing elsewhere. A dwarf variety, 
often grown as vera, is used as a pot plant. Large cuttings are rooted 
in warmth in spring, and grown on for the sake of their berries in 
winter. Aucubas are very useful for planting in dark, shady corners, 
particularly beneath the shade of trees. They also do well in full 
sun in any kind of garden soil. A little pruning is necessary now 
and then to shape the bushes, and such may be done at any period 
between March and September. Propagation may be effected in 
summer by large cuttings in warmth, by small cuttings in a cold 
frame, and by layering the branches. Of the many varieties the 
following are distinct : Bruantii, grandis, latimaculata, longifolia, 
macrophylla, macrophylla maculata, rotundifoha, splendida, vera, 
viridis. Macrophylla, vera, and viridis have green leaves. 

Auricula {Bear's Ears).— The garden Auricula is the progeny of 
Primula Auricula, a Swiss alpine plant, some 4 or 5 inches high, that 
bears rich yellow flowers in April and May. It belongs to the Primula 
family (Primulaceae). There are two distinct types of Auricula in culti- 
vation, the Alpine or Border section, and the Show or Florists' varieties. 
For the outdoor garden the first- named are the most useful, the show 
varieties being more suitable for cultivation in a frame or cool green- 
house. The Alpine Auriculas are of freer growth and generally easier 
to manage out-of-doors ; there is no " meal " or " paste " on the 



54 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

flowers or foliage to be disfigured by rain, dirt, etc., as in the case 
of the show sorts. Auriculas are propagated by seeds, offsets, 
and division of the clumps. Sow the seeds in boxes of sandy soil 
in a cold frame, or cool greenhouse in late summer as soon as ripe ; 
the seeds are irregular in germinating, and if not sown until spring 
germination is even more erratic. September is a good time to lift, 
divide, and replant Auriculas ; it is worth while doing this about 
every third year, giving in the spring of the intervening years a liberal 
top-dressing of loamy soil, to which are added leaf-mould and old 
cow manure. Offsets may be taken off at any time between March 
and September, potting them up or planting in a box in a cold frame. 
Auriculas delight in a fibrous loamy soil, to which should be added 
leaf-mould, decayed manure, wood ashes, and old mortar rubble. 
A light, but not a hot, sunny position is the best for them, though 
they will also give satisfaction in partial shade. Alpine Auriculas 
are delightful plants for the mixed border, for the rock garden, or 
even as an edging to a border. From a packet of mixed seeds beau- 
tiful flowers of varied colours can be raised. 

A favourite with amateurs is the Sweet-scented Giant Yellow 
Auricula, which comes quite true from seeds. Another beautiful 
strain is that known as Blue and Heliotrope Shades, comprising 
dainty tints of lilac, mauve, purple, and pale blue. A dozen of the 
best-named Alpine Auriculas are Dean Hole, maroon-crimson, gold 
centre ; Duke of York, crimson-maroon, yellow centre ; Firefly, 
crimson shaded maroon, yellow centre ; Ganymede, reddish-brown 
shading to buff, cream centre ; Mrs. Douglas, deep purple, paler 
edge, white centre ; Mrs. Harry Turner, purple-maroon, cream centre ; 
Mrs. Markham, reddish-maroon, yellow centre ; Rosy Morn, bronze- 
yellow, gold centre ; Teviotdale, purple, white centre ; The Bride, 
rosy-buff, gold centre ; Uranie, blood-red, paler edge, yellow centre ; 
and Ziska, crimson, yellow centre. 

Avens. — {See Geum.) 

Azalea. — (See Rhododendron.) 

Azara microphylla is a large bush or small tree (Natural Order 
Bixineae) with tiny evergreen leaves and bearing large numbers of 
small, cream, or yellowish flowers from the leaf axils during early sum- 
mer. It is a native of Chili, and may be grown in many parts of the 
Midlands and South of England, but is too tender for general cultiva- 
tion. Light loamy soil suits it, and no regular pruning is required. 
Azara Gillesii, also from Chili, is suitable for planting against a wall in 
the southern counties ; it has glossy rounded leaves, and bears a 
profusion of golden flowers. Grown as a bush, no pruning is necessary. 




Q 
M 
h> 

< 
A 

•J 

O 
A 



AZOLLA 



55 



Azolla. — This is a little water-plant allied to the Ferns and 
Mosses, and belonging to the Natural Order Rhizocarpeae. It floats 
on the water, forms roots freely on the lower side of the thin stems, 
and spreads rapidly as a thin moss over the surface of the water. 
The " fronds " are i inch to i inch long, pale green in spring, chang- 
ing to a reddish-purple tint in autumn. Azolla caroHniana, the species 
usually grown, is a native of the Southern United States. Though 
sometimes in sheltered ponds and water gardens the Azolla survives 
the winter, it is usual to place the plants in a tub, pan, or tank in 
the greenhouse during 
that season. It is only 
necessary to save a small 
quantity as the plants 
increase very rapidly when 
placed outside in May or 
early June in the pond 
or tubs with Water 
Lilies. 

Babiana — B u 1 bous 
plants, all natives of 
South Africa and belong- 
ing to the Iris family 
(Iridaceae). The flower 
stem reaches a height of 
6 to 9 inches, the lower 
part being clothed with 
tapering, plaited leaves, 
more or less hairy. The 
blossoms, 2 inches or so 
across, are borne in a 
many - flowered raceme. 
They are remarkable for 
their distinct colours, in 

which various shades of metallic blue and purple are represented; 
other tints that also occur amongst them are lavender and yellow. 
As a rule, the blossoms appear in May and June. Babianas can 
be successfully grown out-of-doors in the warmer districts, pro- 
viding a suitable spot be prepared for them. The best place is 
a narrow border in front of a greenhouse facing south ; it should 
be well drained, and if the soil is heavy it must be improved 
by mixing in leaf -mould and silver sand. The bulbs are placed 
in a layer of silver and at such a depth that there is 4 inches 




A TYPICAL FLORIST'S VARIETY OF 
AURICULA 



56 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

of soil above their tops. Dormant bulbs can be obtained in August, 
and ought to be planted as soon as possible after that time. In 
winter such protection as is afforded by a mound of cocoanut fibre 
or dried leaves is beneficial Some of the finest forms are atro-cyanea, 
purple, blue, and white ; Attraction, blue ; General Scott, lavender ; 
Hellas, yellow ; Julia, white and blue ; and rubro-cyanea, a startling 
combination of blue and crimson. 

Baccharis. — A small group of shrubs belonging to the Daisy 
family (Compositae). Three or four species have been introduced, 
notably Baccharis halimifulia, from North America ; patagonica, from 
the Magellanic region; and salicifolia, from the Southern United States. 
Baccharis patagonica, a bush 4 to 5 feet high, with small, glossy, 
evergreen leaves and Groundsel-like flowers, in July, is the most 
ornamental. Plant in loamy soil and prune once or twice a year when 
young to induce a bushy habit. Afterwards simply remove the old 
flower-heads. The other sorts may be cut back each February to 
within a bud or two of the base of the previous year's growths. 

Balm — {See Melissa.) 

Balm of Qilead — {See Cedronella triphylla.) 

Balsam.— (S^g Impatiens.) 

Bambusa (Natural Order Gramineae). — Includes a number of the 
hardy Bamboos ; they are grown under similar conditions to those 
recommended for Arundinaria. All the following are hardy, and 
are native of China and Japan : angustifolia, a dwarf Japanese kind 
with small leaves ; disticha, a curious, upright-growing species, about 
2 feet high, with stiff branches ; palmata, a vigorous plant, 8 feet high, 
with leaves 8 or 9 inches long and 2 to 3 inches wide — it spreads 
rapidly ; tessellata, grows 3 feet high and produces larger leaves 
than any other hardy Bamboo — they are sometimes 13 inches long 
and 4 inches wide. Tender (i.e. not hardy) kinds are : arundinacea, 
a vigorous plant from India ; quadrangularis, notable by reason of 
its four-angled stems : it is a native of India, and may be grown 
out-of-doors in the milder parts of the British Isles ; vulgaris, a 
common and strong-growing kind from India. 

Baptisia. — North American herbaceous perennials, members of 
the Pea family (Leguminosae). One species, Baptisia tinctoria, is 
known as Wild Indigo. They grow readily, and flower in the most 
satisfactory manner in deep, well-drained soil in a sunny spot. Most 
of them bear a considerable resemblance to the Lupins, and are at 
their best during the months of June and July. They vary in height 
from 2 to 4 feet. A selection of the most desirable includes alba, 
white ; australis. blue ; confusa, dark blue ; and tinctoria, yellow. 



BARTONIA 57 

All are readily increased by division in autumn, or by seeds sown 
when ripe on a sheltered border out-of-doors. 

Bartonia. — The chief kind, and the only one commonly grown, 
is Bartonia aurea, native of Cahfornia ; it belongs to the Natural 
Order Loasaceae, and is also known as Mentzelia Lindleyii. In 
common with all Cahfornian plants, it enjoys full exposure to the 
sun. The deeply-cut leaves are freely clothed with downy hairs. 
The plants reach a height of about i8 inches, and flower very freely, 
the five-petalled blossoms, which are individually nearly 2 inches 
across, being of rich yellow colour. This annual may be sown in 
the open ground towards the end of April, but a much longer period 
of bloom is ensured if the seeds are sown early in the month under 
glass, the seedlings being planted out when sufficiently advanced. 

BaiS\l.—{See Calamintha.) 

Bay Tree. — {See Laurus.) 

Bear Bind.— {See Calystegia.) 

Bear's Breech.— (S^e Acanthus.) 

Beech. — {See Fagus.) 

Beet. — {See Beta vulgaris.) 

Begonias for Bedding.— Begonias (Natural Order Begoniaceae) 
occur more or less plentifully throughout the warmer regions of the 
globe. The tuberous-rooted species, from which the numerous garden 
varieties of this section have originated, are natives of the Andean 
district of South America. Large numbers of tuberous Begonias are 
used for bedding, as well as many fibrous-rooted kinds, notably the 
varieties of Begonia semperflorens and some of the garden forms 
obtained by the crossing of this kind with others. 

Tuberous-rooied Begonias. — In dealing first with the tuberous- 
rooted varieties most suitable for bedding, it may be pointed out 
that large heavy flowers, which make such a striking show in the 
greenhouse, are not well adapted for the purpose ; owing to their weight 
they are liable to be broken off by strong winds or heavy rains, whereas 
the sturdier kinds, with small or medium-sized flowers, are not dam- 
aged. When seedlings are grown for bedding out we are often told 
to sow the seed early in the year, and the young plants will be ready 
for bedding out late in May or early in June. This is all very well 
when hot-houses and convenient appliances are at hand, but it cannot 
be recommended to the amateur. One-year-old tubers are by far 
more satisfactory for bedding out. To raise these the seed is sown 
in February in a temperature of 60° to 70°, using for the purpose 
clean, well-drained pans of light soil, such as equal parts of loam 
and leaf-mould, with a liberal sprinkling of sand, the top layer of 



58 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

soil having been passed tlirough a fine sieve. Plunge the pan to the 
rim in water, so that the soil may be moistened through ; then sprinkle 
the seed very thinly on the soil surface. Cover with a square of 
glass and shade from the sun, and the young seedlings will soon make 
their appearance. Subsequent treatment consists in transferring the 
young plants to other pans as soon as they are large enough to handle, 
and potting off singly when further advanced. Begonias like a con- 
siderable amount of leaf-mould in the soil, hence the proportion 
above referred to for sowing the seeds in may be adhered to later on. 
When large enough and the weather is favourable, the young plants 
may be put out in prepared beds, where most of them will flower 
before frost sets in. A selection may then be made of those most 
suitable for bedding and for growing in pots another season. Tuberous 
Begonias should be lifted directly the frost injures the upper leaves, 
and laid in a shed or on the stage of a greenhouse to dry. In a few 
days the succulent shoots will fall away from the tubers, from which 
as much of the old soil is removed as can be taken off without injury 
CO the roots. They are then laid in snallow boxes of dry soil and 
stored where they will be safe from frost and yet not parched. In 
spring they are potted singly in 4-inch pots, and placed on a shelf 
in the greenhouse. They will not require much water at first, but 
as they grow more must, of course, be given. 

Wliile the above remarks refer to the raising of seedlings for bed- 
ding, attention may also be directed to the fact that Begonia special- 
ists supply selected tubers true to colour at a very cheap rate for 
bedding purposes. There are, in addition, some well-recognised kinds 
that are largely employed for bedding. These are increased by cuttings 
of the young shoots in spring or by division of the tubers when more 
than one shoot pushes up from each root. Cuttings cannot be formed 
until the growths are about an inch in length. They are inserted 
in small pots of light sandy soil placed in a closed propagating case, 
where, if there is slight heat, they will soon root. Care must be taken 
to see that they do not " damp off " ; they are liable to do this in 
too moist an atmosphere. If signs of decay are noticed, the light 
may be tilted each day for a short time. 

The best of the named tuberous rooted varieties generally used 
for bedding are : Double (all of freely branched, sturdy habit) — Argus, 
scarlet ; Calliope, pink ; Count ZeppeHn, orange-scarlet ; Gladiateur, 
crimson ; Lafayette, crimson-scarlet ; Major Hope, light rose ; Mar- 
quis of Stafford, deep crimson ; Miss M. Griffith, white ; Mrs. Langtry, 
white ; President Savoye, pale yellow ; Rev. E. Lascelles, deep yellow ; 
and Washington, brilliant scarlet. Single (of upright growth, with 



BELLIS 59 

long, pointed petals) — Bertinii, orange- scarlet ; and Worthiana, 
vermilion. 

Fibrous-rooted Begonias. — The exceedingly variable Begonia sem« 
perflorens is, in one or other of its many varieties, largely used for 
bedding. The plants flower continuously throughout the season, 
and, what is more, the foliage of many varieties becomes of an intense 
crimson tint. The flowers vary in colour from white to the richest 
red. Some of the plants are very dwarf, and these may be depended 
upon to come true from seed if it is obtained from a reliable firm. 
Among the best varieties of this class are : Gloire de Chatelaine, pink; 
gracilis, deep pink ; Limmosa, scarlet ; Magnifica, dark foliage and 
scarlet flowers ; Snow Queen, white ; Triomphe de Lorraine, crimson 
leaves and flowers ; and Vernon, like the last, but very dwarf. When 
the Begonias of this section are raised from seed this should be sown 
early in the year in order to have plants available for bedding-out 
time. The directions for sowing the seed of the tuberous varieties 
apply to these. Another mode of increase for the very dwarf kinds 
is to lift them early in autumn before the frost has done any damage, 
divide them as one would a herbaceous plant, and put the pieces 
in small pots of soil. In a hght position in a greenhouse, where a 
temperature of 45° to 55° is maintained, they will pass the winter 
safely, and form good plants by spring. The taller-growing varieties 
of the same section are increased by cuttings, which, if taken early 
in August, soon root in sandy soil in a closed and shaded frame. If 
potted singly as soon as they are well rooted they will pass the winter 
safely in the greenhouse, under the conditions just described. There 
are other varieties of fibrous-rooted Begonias of larger growth than 
those previously mentioned, and at the same time of great value for 
summer bedding. Chief among them are Ascotensis, pink ; Cor- 
beille de Feu, bright red ; Knowsleyana, silvery blush, and Weltoni- 
ensis, deep pink. 

Belladonna. — {See Atropa.) 

Belladonna Lily. — {See Amaryllis Belladonna.) 

Bellflower. — {See Campanula.) 

Bel I is (Daisy). — Native of Europe. The Daisy (Natural Order 
Compositae) is familiar to everyone, and all have a soft spot in their 
heart for the " wee modest crimson-tipped flower " of the poet Burns, 
even though it occur in well-kept lawns. Apart from the common 
kind there is quite a long list of garden varieties, which are largely 
grown for spring bedding. Some have very fine flowers, and all 
bloom continuously over a long period. So floriferous are they that 
it is often a difficult matter to steel one's heart to remove them when 



6o THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

it is necessary to make way for the summer bedding plants. When 
there is a reserve border set aside for the reception of Daisies and 
similar plants during the summer, it should, if possible, be so situated 
that it does not get dry at any time, as not only the Daisy, but the 
Polyanthus, witli which it is often associated in spring beds, resents 
such conditions A well-tilled soil, not necessarily very rich, is just 
the place for Daisies. \Vlien they are lifted from the spring beds 
all the flowers should be cut off, and the plants divided to the extent 
that may be desired. Then they are planted in rows, taking care 
that the soil is made firm around each plant. Should the weather 
be dry the plants benefit by an immediate soaking of water. During 
summer no attention is necessary beyond an occasional hoeing be- 
tween the rows in order to keep down weeds and loosen the surface 
soil. A good selection of varieties is as follows : AHce, salmon-pink ; 
Dresden China, delicate pink ; Monstrosum, white and red, mottled, 
very large ; Rob Roy, quilled flowers, intense red ; Snowdrift, white, 
quilled ; and Venus, double white. Beside these there is a singular 
form known to botanists as Bellis perennis monstrosum, and popu- 
larly termed the Hen and Chickens Daisy. In this variety the central 
flower is surrounded by smaller ones ; it is a curiosity, but for beauty 
does not compare with the others. 

In addition to the common Daisy and its varieties there is the 
Blue Daisy of Morocco (Belhs rotundifoha caerulescens) : this has 
round leaves with particularly long slender stalks, while the flower- 
heads much resemble those of the common Daisy, except that the 
florets are fewer and often broader, while the colour is a pleasing 
shade of pale blue. This Daisy is much less hardy than its English 
representative, and requires a warm, well-drained part of the rock- 
work or some similar position. 

Bel Mum (False Daisy). — This, which is native of the Mediterranean 
region, is nearly related to the Daisy ; indeed, it is only separated 
therefrom by slight botanical features, and belongs to the same family 
(Compositae). There are but three species. Bellium bellidioides 
forms a tuft of spathulate leaves, and makes its way by means of 
creeping stolons. The flower-heads, which are borne on slender stems 
about 4 inches in height, are white, and produced during the summer 
months. Belhum crassifolium has thick obovate leaves of a some- 
what downy nature ; the Daisy-like flower heads are of whitish yellow 
colour. Bellium minutum is quite, a miniature plant with whitish 
flowers ; it needs a well-drained position on a sunny part of the 
rockery ; indeed, all the False Daisies must be regarded as rockwork 
plants. 



I 



BERBERIDOPSIS CORALLINA 



6i 



Bent Grass — {See Agrostis.) 

Berberidopsis corallina is a Chilian plant belonging to the 
Barberry family (Berberidaceae). Of chmbing habit, its long, slender 
woody branches are clothed with dark evergreen leaves, which have 
spiny margins and 
somewhat resemble 
those of the Mahonia. 
The coral-red flowers 
are borne during late 
spring in large axillary 
pendent clusters. Al- 
though somewhat ten- 
der, it gives excellent 
results if planted 
against a west wall in 
the South of England, 
and is suitable for 
greenhouse cultivation. 
Warm and well-drained 
loamy soil will do, but 
if a little peat can be 
added at planting time 
it will be appreciated. 
Propagation is by seeds, 
cuttings, or layers. 
Pruning is confined to 
shortening the branches 
after the flowers are 
over in order to keep the 
plant within bounds. 

Berberis. — This is 
an important genus 
(Natural Order Berberi- 
daceae), composed largely of hardy shrubs, either evergreen or decidu- 
ous. They are widely distributed through Europe, the Himalaya, 
China, Japan, North America, the southern part of South America, 
etc. One species, Berberis vulgaris, is wild in the British Isles. Recent 
explorations in China have added many new kinds to the previously 
long list of those in cultivation, and Berberis may now be considered 
one of the most important groups of hardy shrubs. The majority 
are good flowering plants, whilst some are conspicuous again in autumn 
when covered with showy fruit. The fruit is wholesome, and can be 




A NEW 
BARBERRY 

(Berberis Wilsonae) 



62 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

made into jellj^ ; in some countries it is in regular use. As a rule, 
cultivation offers no difficulties, for, given ordinary good garden soil, 
they grow well and give little trouble. Except when grown for some 
special purpose, they require no regular pruning, and may be left 
many years without thinning. Berberis Aquifolium, however, a plant 
often known as Mahonia, is excellent for clothing bare banks either 
in partial shade or full sun, and it is necessary to prune it severely 
to keep it to the desired height. This pruning may be done any 
time between April and July. The best plan is to remove the longer 
and wilder shoots each year. Propagation of many kinds is by seeds, 
but a few- — notably Berberis stenophylla — are increased by means of 
cuttings. Semi-ripe shoots, 4 inches long, should be taken in August 
and inserted in sandy soil in a closed but cold frame. In this position 
they must remain until the following April, when roots will have formed. 
The young plants may then be planted in nursery borders. 

The chief kinds are : Aquifolium (Mahonia), a Western North 
American shrub, 3 to 8 feet high, with large, evergreen, pinnate leaves 
and inflorescences of yellow flowers in spring, which are followed by 
deep purple fruits, covered by a dense bloom, in autumn ; aristata is 
a very vigorous shrub from the Himalaya, it grows from 12 to 18 feet 
high, and bears yellow flowers in May and purple fruits later ; buxi- 
foha is a charming kind from Chili, of semi-evergreen habit, it bears 
small Box-like leaves, and sohtary, fragrant, golden blossoms from 
the leaf axils in April ; candidula, a new evergreen from China, is 
of low, compact habit, and is excellent for the rock garden or border ; 
concinna, a Himalayan plant, conspicuous by reason of the silvery 
undersurface of the leaves and large solitary yellow flowers, followed 
by large, oval, scarlet fruits. Darwinii, an evergreen Chilian plant, 
one of the best of all, sometimes grows 12 to 15 feet high and as 
far through, but is usually much smaller ; the racemes of rich orange, 
or sometimes orange-scarlet flowers, are very attractive amongst the 
dark leaves in April and May, Japonica belongs to the Mahonia set, 
and has very long leathery leaves made up of about eleven leaflets, 
the golden flowers are borne in large heads in March, a very difficult 
shrub to transplant ; Lycium is a vigorous shrub from the Himalaya, 
it grows 12 to 15 feet high and as far through ; semicaulialata is a 
new Chinese species, with small deciduous leaves, it is of elegant 
habit, and bears rather small yellow flowers, followed by a profusion 
of small coral-red fruits which remain through the greater part of 
winter. 

Berberis stenophylla is perhaps the most generally useful of all 
shrubs. Of hybrid origin, it claims two Chilian species (Darwinii and 



BERCHEMIA VOLUBILIS 63 

empetrifolia) as parents ; it forms a shapely bush 8 to lo feet high 
and 12 feet in diameter without pruning. During April or early May 
the golden, fragrant flowers are borne in such profusion as quite to 
hide the narrow evergreen leaves. It may be used as a specimen 
bush, group, or hedge. 

Berberis Thunbergii is a Japanese kind renowned for the brilliant 
colour assumed b}^ the leaves previous to falling ; vulgaris is the 
Common Barberry of our hedgerows, it is worth growing both for its 
yellow flowers and scarlet fruits ; Wilsonae is a new Chinese species of 
graceful outline, it is grown both for its golden flowers and scarlet fruit. 

Berchemia volubilis belongs to the order Rhamnaceae, and is 
a native of the Southern United States, where it is known under the 
name of Supple Jack. Of rambhng growth, it requires to be planted 
near a trellis or low fence over which it may ramble at will, for no 
pruning is necessary. Loamy soil suits it, and propagation is by 
seeds. The flowers, greenish and opening in summer, are not con- 
spicuous ; they are followed by violet- coloured berries. This is not 
a very important plant. 

Bessera. — This genus consists of but one species, namely 
Bessera elegans, a charming little bulbous plant with bell-shaped 
scarlet flowers borne during the summer months. It is native of 
Mexico, and belongs to the Lily family (Liliaceae). In shade of 
colour the blossoms vary somewhat, hence other names have been 
bestowed upon the most distinct. The leaves are long, narrow, and 
grass-hke, while the slender flower scape reaches a height of i8 inches 
or even more. For the successful cultivation of this delightful little 
bulb a warm and sheltered spot and a well-drained soil are necessary ; 
indeed, the cultural directions given for Babiana apply. 

Beta vulgaris. — Most of the forms of Beet, which belong to the 
Natural Order Chenopodiaceae and are native of Europe, are grown 
as vegetables or for the extraction of sugar from the roots. Some 
of those with richly coloured leaves are, however, used for summer 
bedding ; especially useful is that known as the Brazilian or Chilian 
Beet, a strong-growing kind, with small roots and with leaves of different 
tints of red and orange, with scarlet midrib. Dell's Crimson, one of 
the best for eating, is of dwarf growth, with rich crimson leaves ; 
it is also used for bedding. In order to display the foliage at its 
best the ground should be well dug and manured. The seed may be 
sown where the plants are to remain, or in a reserve bed early in 
April, the young plants removed into their permanent quarters in 
early June. Transplanting needs to be carefully carried out. 

Betony.— (5^(j Stachys Betonica.) 



64 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Betula (Birch). — This is an important p:roup, composed chiefly 
of hardy trees with a few shrubs, natives of Europe, Asia from the 
Himalaya northwards, and North America, and belonging to the 
Natural Order Cupuliferac. They thrive on poor land, and some of 
them are well adapted for planting on exposed hillsides and on bare 
sand near the coast. Two species, vernicosa and pubescens, are 
found wild in the British Isles, the foiTner in dry and the latter on 
moist land. Both seed freely, and seedlings spring up spontaneously 
whenever the seed is blown on to suitable ground. Betula verrucosa 
is the commoner tree, and large quantities of its wood are used for 
cotton reels, shuttles, furniture, clog soles, etc. The wood grown in 
the British Isles is less useful than that from North Europe, more 
especially that which is grown in Finland. Large quantities of 
American Birch are also imported into British markets. This is 
used largely for furniture, spinning shuttles and for cutting into 
veneer to glue together for use as ply- wood. The Birches may be 
grown in almost any garden without trouble, and some of the kinds, 
particularly those with pendent branches, make handsome lawn 
trees. In some instances the bark is white, in others brown or yellow- 
ish, and few trees are so beautiful during winter. Propagation of 
the species is by seeds and of the varieties by grafting. Wliilst the 
trees are young they should be pruned lightly each year in order to 
keep the leaders clear of rival shoots and the trees shapely. In later 
life no pruning is required or desirable unless branches are broken 
by wind. 

The most important are : verrucosa (Silver Birch), a handsome 
tree for light, dry land ; the weeping varieties, pendula and pendula 
Youngi, are very graceful and desirable trees ; pubescens may be 
distinguished by its hairy branches and leaves (N.B. — these two sorts 
are forms of Betula alba, commonly known as the Silver Birch). 
Davurica is a very hardy tree from Nortli Asia and North America ; 
lenta, the Cherry Birch of North America, important there for its 
timber, is grown here for decorative purposes ; lutea. the Yellow 
Birch of North America, forms a handsome tree ; nigra is a handsome 
kind from North America, its rough, reddish-brown bark is attractive ; 
Maximowiczii is a particularly vigorous, upright-growing tree from 
Japan ; papyrifera, the Paper Birch or Canoe Birch of North America, 
forms a shapely tree of attractive outHne ; the timber is useful and 
the tree very hardy. 

Bidens (Bur Marigold). — The members of this group, which 
belong to the Daisy family (Compositae), and are native of north 
temperate countries, are of no special decorative value, unless it 



BIGELOVIA GRAVEOLENS 65 

be Bidens atrosanguinea, which is classed by the latest botanical 
authorities with the Dahlias under the name of Dahlia Zimapanii. 
This, which forms a tuberous root after the manner of a Dahlia, 
should be given the same treatment, the roots being protected from 
frost during winter. The flowers of Bidens atrosanguinea are remark- 
able for their deep blackish -crimson tint. As above stated, the 
other members of this group are of little value from a decorative 
standpoint. They reach a height of 2 to 6 feet, or even more, 
and the flower-heads are for the most part of a white or yellow 
tint. 

Bigelovia graveolens is a loose-growing shrub from Western 
North America suitable for planting against a wall in the South of 
England. It belongs to the Daisy family (Compositae), and on a 
south wall attains a height of 10 or 12 feet. The leaves are long, 
narrow, and grass-like, and the flowers individually small. They 
are yellowish in colour and produced in conspicuous heads during 
late summer. Plant in a sunny position in warm, loamy soil ; pro- 
pagate by seeds, and shorten the branches back to the wall during 
winter. This shrub is known also as Chrysocoma graveolens and 
Linosyris graveolens. 

Bignonia. — Though there are many sorts of Bignonia, the only 
species which can be looked upon as hardy is Bignonia capreolata 
(Natural Order Bignoniaceae), the Cross Vine of the Southern United 
States. Even this is not suited to all localities, and is seen at its 
best only in the milder parts of the country. It is a free-growing 
climber of a shrubby character, that attaches itself to any support 
by small but powerful tendrils. On the south front of a dwelling- 
house its requirements are well met, as there it receives a certain 
amount of protection during severe weather, while the shoots are well 
ripened in autumn. The leaves are, as a rule, divided into a couple 
of leaflets, broadly ovate in shape and of a dark green colour. The 
flowers, which are, as in many other of the Bignonias, funnel-shaped, 
are borne during the summer months. When this Bignonia is trained 
to a wall the only pruning required is to cut off any old and exhausted 
shoots early in spring before growth recommences. 

Bindweed. — {See Convolvulus.) 

Birch. — {See Betula.) 

Bird Cherry. — {See Prunus.) 

Bitter Cress. — {See Cardamine.) 

Bitter Sweet. — {See Solanum Dulcamara.) 

Bitter Vetch. — {See Orobus.) 

Bladder Fern. — {See Cystopteris.) 

F 



66 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Btechnum Spicant. {Hard Fern). — Known also as Blechnuni 
boroale ami Lomaria Spicant. This distinct fern (Natural Order 
Filices) is found wild in many parts of this country, and is also a 
native of nearly all portions of the globe. It is an evergreen, and 
its dwarf and sturdy habit, together with the deep green colour of 
the barren fronds, renders it useful for the outdoor rockery, where 
in a moist shady nook it is bright and green all the winter, when 
so many hardy ferns are dormant. It is not at all particular as to 
soil, providing it be free from lime, for this fern resents lime in any 
form. The varieties of the Hard Fern are almost innumerable, but 
the majority of them are less ornamental than a good form of the 
typical plant. All the other species of Blechnum are tender, and 
are therefore unfitted for the outdoor garden. 
Blessed Thistle. — {See Carbenia benedicta.) 
Bletia.— The tender plants of this genus, which belongs to the 
Orchid family (Orchidaceae), are numerous, but the only hardy one 
is Bletia hyacinthina, a native of China. It forms a tuft of pleasing 
green lanceolate leaves, i foot or little more in height, and the flower 
spike, which well overtops the foliage, bears a raceme of bright purple 
blossoms early in summer. This Bletia may be grown in pots, but 
it is seen to far greater advantage in a bed made up of peat and sand, 
and so arranged that while it is effectually drained the soil can be 
kept moist whenever required. It must be included in any selection 
of hardy Orchids, however choice, for it is of refined appearance, 
distinct from any other, and its successful cultivation does not present 
any special difficulties. Protection afforded by a few leaves around 
the crowns during winter is beneficial. 

Bloomeria. — Two pretty flowering bulbs, native of California and 
members of the Lily family (Liliaceae), compose this group ; they are 
usually at their best about midsummer. The best known and most 
readily obtained from dealers is Bloomeria aurea, which grows about i 
foot high and bears a spreading, many-flowered bunch of golden-yellow 
flowers about i inch across. The second kind, Bloomeria Clevelandii, 
much resembles the preceding, but the flowers are smaller and the stem 
more slender. The Bloomerias need a light, well-drained soil in a sunny 
spot ; indeed, the treatment recommended for Babiana suits them. 
Bluebell. — {See Campanula rotundifolia and Scilla.) 
Bocconla (Plume Poppy). — Ornamental herbaceous plants, natives 
of China and Japan, and belonging to the Poppy family (Papaveraceae). 
Owing to their striking fohage they are very handsome when occupy- 
ing an isolated position or in a bed to themselves. In good soil the 
roots spread quickly, and the stems, which reach a height of 6 to 




< 

Q 

O 
u 

< 

Z 
o 
u 
o 
o 
w 

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a, 
a. 
o 

a. 



ID 

W 

a: 



BOLTON I A 67 

10 feet, are clothed with large, glaucous, Poppy-like leaves, and 
terminated by plumes of blossoms of a creamy tint. The Bocconias 
are readily increased by seed or by division. The kinds are cordata 
(also known as japonica), the oldest and most generally grown one ; 
Geraldii purpurea, with very large, handsome foliage and panicles 
of white flowers, followed by distinct brown seed pods ; and micro- 
phylla, taller than the others, with small white flowers, reddish 
in the bud state. Though quite hardy, the Bocconias are often used 
for subtropical bedding, for they harmonise well with the various 
tender plants employed for the same purpose, and bloom in July. 

Boltonia (False Slarwort). — The Boltonias, which are natives of 
North America, are a class of Aster-hke plants, members of the Daisy 
fcimily (Compositae) ; indeed, they are often confounded with the 
Michaelmas Daisies. They will grow freely in any good garden 
soil, and are readily increased by division in autumn or spring. Like 
the perennial Asters, they soon become exhausted if allowed to remain 
in one spot for some time ; hence every second year the plants should 
be divided and replanted. In replanting, the shoots in the centre 
of the plant should not be chosen for the purpose, as they are naturally 
weak, by far the best being those from the outside of the clump. They 
reach a height of 4 to 5 feet. The principal kinds are : asteroides, 
with white or pale pinkish flowers (also known as glastifoha) ; decurrens, 
pink ; and latisquama, white. Like the Michaelmas Daisies, sprays 
of these Boltonias are very useful in a cut state, as they last well 
in water ; the plants bloom in July and August. 

Bomarea.— A fairly extensive group of plants, nearly related to 
Alstroemeria, from which they are mainly distinguished by their 
climbing habit. They belong to the Amaryllis family (Amaryllidaceae), 
and are principally natives of South America, in some parts of which 
they are widely distributed. Generally speaking, they must be 
regarded as greenhouse plants, but two species are hardy under par- 
ticularly favourable conditions, such as a sheltered position in the 
warmer parts of the country or in a well-drained border in front of 
the greenhouse. They are Bomarea acutifolia with flowers in early 
summer of an orange colour ; and Bomarea Salsilla, which is even 
hardier. This is a slender climber, and produces in June small purple 
flowers about | inch long, and disposed in loose clusters. The interior 
of the flower has a couple of darker spots at the base, and the segments 
are slightly tipped with green. Like its ally the Alstroemeria, 
Bomarea, when once established, should be allowed to remain undis- 
turbed for some years. 

Borage. — {See Borago.) 



68 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Borago {Borage). — From the cliarming blue tint of their blossoms, 
the different kinds of Borage are remarkably attractive, and one, 
the Common Borage (Borago officinalis), is largely used as a flavour- 
ing in many prepared drinks. They are native of Southern Europe 
and Asia Minor, and belong to the Natural Order Boraginaceae. There 
are white and purple varieties of the common kind. The flowers of 
the Borage are borne in drooping panicles, and when in full bloom 
it is decidedly attractive, but it is seldom regarded from that stand- 
point, being chiefly grown for its economic value. It is readily in- 
creased either by division or seeds, and will grow freely in ordinary 
garden soil. A second species, Borago laxiflora, with drooping clusters 
of blue flowers, is ornamental, and blooms from June to the end of 
the summer ; it reaches a height of 12 to 18 inches, and it is equally 
at home in the rock garden, herbaceous border, or wall garden. This 
is the only Borage commonly grown in the flower garden. 

Botrychium {Moon Worl). — The only hardy member of this 
group of Ferns (Natural Order Filices) is our British Moon Wort 
(Botrychium Lunaria). It belongs to what are termed Flowering 
Ferns, of which the Royal Fern (Osmunda regalis) is a well-known 
example. In the Flowering Ferns the spores, instead of being arranged 
on the undersides of the fronds, are disposed in a separate branching 
spike, which usually overtops the sterile fronds. This Botrychium 
is deciduous (leaf losing), and forms altogether a somewhat thin 
plant ; the sterile fronds are pinnate, each consisting of about a 
dozen fan-shaped pinnae. The fertile spike reaches a height of 
about 12 inches, and is much branched. In a state of nature this 
Fern is found in the temperate and northern regions of both hemi- 
spheres ; it is not at all amenable to cultivation, chief success being 
obtained when it is planted in a peaty bed and kept moist at all seasons. 

Bougainvillea. — At some seasons of the year the Bougainvilleas, 
which are native of South America, and belong to the Natural Order 
Nyctaginaceae, require the temperature of a warm greenhouse, but 
they do well outside during the summer months, and are much used 
for summer bedding. They are generally used in mixed beds of 
flowering plants which are now very popular, and in a sunny spot 
they flower continuously from early summer until autumn. By far 
the best for the purpose are Bougainvillea glabra and its variety 
Sanderiana, the last-named having richer coloured bracts. The real 
flowers of the Bougainvillea, borne in small clusters, are not at all 
showy ; each cluster, however, is surrounded by leaf-like bracts, 
which are of rich colour, usually of some shade of purple. In order 
to have them at their best for bedding purposes, the plants need 



BOUSSINGAULTIA 69 

careful attention in spring. They pass the winter in a partially 
dormant state, during which time they are kept in a greenhouse, 
where a temperature of 50° to 60° is maintained ; little water is 
given, the object being to ensure a period of partial rest. About 
the end of February or early in March all straggling shoots should 
be shortened in order to keep the plants shapely, and any old and 
exhausted shoots cut out. If the plants need repotting it must be 
done at once, using for the purpose a mixture of loam, peat and sand. 
WTiether repotted or not, the plants will require more water, a higher 
temperature, and a moister atmosphere when growth begins. The 
plants must be well exposed to light and air, so that they do not 
suffer when taken out-of-doors. Generally speaking, the middle of 
June is a good time to put them outside. The white-flowered Solanum 
jasminoides and the deep orange- coloured Browallia (Streptosolen) 
Jamesonii are often associated with Bougainvillea. The Browallia 
should not be planted out in the beds ; it is far more satisfactory 
when the pots are plunged in the soil. 

Boussingaultia. — This group (which belongs to the Natural Order 
Chenopodiaceae) consists of a few plants, natives of South America, 
of which only one, Boussingaultia baselloides, is in cultivation in this 
country, where it is sometimes known as the Madeira Vine. It is 
a rapid-growing climber of a herbaceous character, with tuberous 
roots, the reddish stems being clothed with thick, dark green cordate 
leaves. The flowers are whitish, and appear in autumn from the 
upper parts of the shoots ; they are not particularly showy, but have 
a somewhat Hawthorn-like fragrance. Where a rapid-growing climber, 
that depends for its beauty upon its foliage alone, is required, the 
Boussingaultia can be recommended. It succeeds best in light soil 
and a warm position. A curious feature is the presence of tubercules 
on the stems, from which young plants can be raised ; the tubercules 
are exceedingly brittle. Another species recognised by botanists is 
cordata, which is a good deal similar to the preceding, but the leaves 
are more pronouncedly heart-shape. 

Box. — {See Buxus.) 

Box Edging [Dwarf Box). — This is a miniature form of the common 
Box, which is a good deal used as an edging to walks, flower beds, 
etc. It has long been employed in this way, the practice having been, 
in the first place, copied from the Dutch, in whose formal gardens it 
figured largely. Edgings of Box are not now used to the same extent 
as they once were, for a more natural style of gardening prevails, and, 
further, the Box often affords a resting-place for various garden 
pests. There is, however, a good deal to be said in favour of well- 



70 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

kept Box edging in the formal garden, but wlien neglected it is far 
from pleasing. What is termed the dwarf Dutch Box is the best 
for the purpose, and planting may be done from October to March, 
but unless unavoidable it should not be carried out in the depth of 
winter. If a piece of old Box edging, that has been kept regularly 
trinuned, is taken up, it will be found that it consists of a dense mass 
of shoots, all or nearly all of which have formed roots of their own. 
For planting purposes these are pulled apart, and each bit trimmed 
into shape by shortening any straggling roots and tops. If the plant- 
ing is done by the side of a gravel path, the gravel should be pulled 
back for a little distance in order to allow some good soil to be mixed 
in. The Box loves a chalky soil, so if the ground is stiff and clayey, 
a little powdered chalk will be beneficial. If, on the other hand, 
the natural soil is poor and thin, a loamy compost enriched by manure 
should be added. In planting Box edging a shallow trench must 
be taken out, the ground being made quite level and firm on the 
side against which the Box is to be placed. The plants being put 
into position so that the tops are from 2 to 3 inches above the ground, 
the soil is filleil in and trodden down firmly. Care is necessary to 
put the plants uniformly deep, otherwise the line will not be even. 
It may be necessary to trim off a shoot here and there in order to 
impart a neat finish to the edging. However carefully it may be 
planted, even the best Box edging will in time get unsightly unless 
it is regularly trimmed. The month of April is the best time for 
carrying out this work, or it may be done again in August. 

Brachycome iberidifolia {Sioan River Daisy). — A pretty half- 
hardy annual (Natural Order Compositae) that was introduced from 
the Swan River district of Western Australia about sev^enty years 
ago. It is a freely-branched yet slender-growing plant, that reaches 
a height of 6 to 9 inches ; the flowers, which are a good deal like 
those of a Star Cineraria, are a pleasing shade of blue, there being 
also white and pink forms. It prefers a light, rather rich soil and a 
sunny spot, under which conditions it will flower thro\ighout the 
greater part of the summer. The seed may be sown outside in April 
unless in very cold districts, when the young plants may be raised 
under glass and planted out in May. 

Bracken.— (Sec Pteris Aquilina.) 

Bravoa. — The only Bravoa in general cultivation is geminiflora. 
It is native of Mexico and belongs to the Amaryllis family (Amaryl- 
lidaceae). It is a bulbous plant, that produces long, narrow leaves, 
while the flower stem, which reaches a height of 2 feet or so, bears 
on its upper portion drooping tubular orange-red flowers. It usually 





PRRKNMmI cornklowkk 
(CENTAUREA MONTANA) 



MEADOW SAMRON (COI.CHICUM 
AUTUMNALE) 





A SHOWY BINDWEED (CONVOLVULUS 
CNEORUM) 



HARDY CRINUM iCRINUM 
CAPENSE) 



BRIZA 71 

blooms ill July. This Hravoa is hardy uikUm- iiarlicularly favour- 
able coiulilions, and tlie troatment roconnnendod for liabiana is 
suitable. 

Briza {Quaking or Tolkr Gr(iss).~OY\vM\\v\\{:\\ liardy Grasses 
(Natural Order Gramineae), some of whieh arc natives of this country. 
They arc of annual duration only and grow freely in any good garden 
soil. In clumps or masses, as many annuals are grown, Brizas have 
a very pretty effect in the garden, while for associating with cut 
flowers they are invaluable. What is more, if the spikes are cut a 
little before the seeds are quite ripe and hung up to dry, they are 
useful for various decorative purposes during the winter montlis. 
The seed may be sown in the open ground in spring. The best are 
Briza maxima, media, and minor, the names referring to the size 
of the ilowor spikelcts. 

Brodiaea {Missouri Hyacinth).— T\\c Brodiacas are slender bulb- 
ous i^lants, natives of California and North-West America, and belong 
to the Lily family (Liliaceae). All require a warm, well-drained sunny 
spot, and it is useless to attempt to grow them in cold, heavy soil. 
While their requirements are about the same, they differ widely from 
each other in general, some sending up tall spikes while others are 
quite dwarf. They bloom, as a rule, during June and July. A well- 
prepared and well-drained border, if possible under a sunny wall, 
should be prepared for Brodiaea, the bulbs being buried to a depth 
of 3 to 4 inches, and surrounded with silver sand. Planting is done 
in autumn as soon as well-ripened bulbs are obtainable. A selection 
of llie best includes Bridgesii, purplish-blue ; Candida, light porcelain 
blue ; capitata, deep violet ; coccinea (Vegetable Fire Cracker of 
California), blood-red below, the apex of the tube and segments yellow- 
ish-green ; congesta, blue, tall grower ; Hendersonii, bright yellow ; 
Howellii, lilac blue ; ixioides, yellow, strij^ed purple ; lactea, white ; 
nudtillora, deep blue; Orcuttii, lavender ;j Purdyii, blue; and volu- 
bilis. rose. The last -named is remarkable, inasmuch as the flower- 
stem entwines itself around any support, and will often reach a height 
of several feet. 

Bromus {Broom Grass). — An extensive group of Grasses (Natural 
Order Gramineae), most of which are natives of the Northern Hemi- 
sphere. While many of them are of considerable economic value, 
their ornamental qualities do not, as a rule, rank high. F<'^r and 
away the most effective from a decorative standpoint is Bromus 
brizacformis ; it is a native of the Caucasus, and forms a tuft about 
2 feet in height. In general appearance it is suggestive of Briza 
maxima, but is of looser and more elegant growth. Like the Briza, 



72 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

it is useful for associating with cut flowers, and when dried lasts for 
a long time. 

Broom. — (Sec Cytisus.) 

Broom, Spanish — {See Spartium.) 

Broussonetia papyrifera is the principal species in this group 
or genus of the Nettle family (Urticaceae). It is closely allied to the 
Mulberry, and is a native of China, Japan, and other Eastern countries. 
Its large, ornamental, hairy leaves vary in outline, and are usually 
deeply lobed, sometimes being divided into numerous fine segments. 
In this country it forms a large-spreading bush 20 feet or more high, 
and sometimes a small tree. In China it attains the dimensions of 
a medium-sized tree, but is often grown as a coppice plant or the 
young branches, which are used in the manufacture of paper, and 
the fibre for coarse cloth. Plant in well-drained loamy soil, propa- 
gate from cuttings of ripened growths out-of-doors, and cut out dead 
shoots in summer, shortening any wild branches at the same time. 
By cutting plants to the ground each year in February, annual stems, 
bearing large leaves, are produced. The variety laciniata has finely- 
cut leaves and macrophylla bears very large leaves. 

Browallia. — The Browallias are all natives of South America,' 
and belong to the Potato family (Solanaceae). They are not very 
numerous, but some of them are much used for bedding out 
during the summer months. The best are Browallia elata, popu- 
larly termed the Forget-me-not of the Andes ; this forms an upright, 
much branched plant, from 15 to 18 inches high, and bears during 
summer a profusion of pale blue flowers ; it is cdso known as Browallia 
demissa. It is best raised from seeds sown in warmth in spring. A 
kind widely removed from the rest is Browallia Jamesoni, more 
frequently met with under the name of Streptosolen. It is altogether 
a larger grower than the others, and plants from 4 to 6 feet in height, 
crowded with bright orange-red blossoms, form a striking feature 
in mixed beds of flowers. The purple flowered Browallia speciosa 
major, a shrubby kind from 18 inches to 2 feet in height, flowers con- 
tinuously throughout the season ; it is much appreciated for green- 
house decoration as well as for summer bedding. The last to mention 
is Browallia viscosa, of which the blossoms, much smaller than those 
of speciosa major, are deep blue, with conspicuous white eye ; it is 
dwarfer and more compact than the preceding, but equally floriferous. 
The Browallias (except elata) need to be wintered in a greenhouse 
safe from frost, and at that season kept moderately dry. With the 
return of ?pring more water may be given, when they will start into 
growth. If young shoots are taken as cuttings they strike root as 



BRUCKENTHALIA SPICULIFOLIA 73 

readily as a Fuchsia, and if grown in the greenhouse will be ready 
for bedding out in early summer. Older plants, however, make the 
best display when bedded out. Seeds of speciosa major and viscosa 
are sometimes obtainable, and from these young plants can be readily 
raised if treated as recommended for elata. 

Bruckenthalia spiculifolia, a pretty little Heath-like shrub 
belonging to the Heather family (Ericaceae), and native of Eastern 
Europe and Asia Minor. Mature plants are from 3 to 6 inches high and 
form dense tufts of rich green leaves about the size of those of the 
Common Heather. The upright inflorescences are in the form of short, 
dense heads well above the foHage, the flowers being white or white 
tinged with pink. They are produced in May. Moist, peaty soil, or 
light loam free from lime, suits, whilst propagation is by cuttings 
placed in sandy soil under a handlight in August, or by layers. Prun- 
ing is confined to the removal of the old flower-heads. It may be 
planted in the rockery or in beds with Heaths. 

Bryanthus. — ^This is a small but ornamental genus of Heath-like 
shrubs (Naturd Order Ericaceae) which require somewhat similar 
treatment to Erica, but must not be planted in ground subject to 
drought. They may be placed in the rock garden or in beds, but 
it is well to select a position shaded from the midday sun. Peaty soil 
or light loam free from lime is suitable, and pruning is hmited to the 
removal of the faded flower heads. Increase is by seeds, cuttings, 
or layers, the first and last being the easiest methods. Bryanthus 
Breweri and empetriformis are natives of the mountains of Western 
North America from British Columbia to Southern California ; they 
grow a few inches high and bear reddish flowers in May. Bryan- 
thus taxifolius is widely distributed through the alpine regions of 
the Northern Hemisphere ; its flowers may be red or bluish in colour, 
and it grows from 3 to 9 inches high, Bryanthus erectus is really a 
hybrid between Bryanthus empetriformis and Rhodothamnus Chamae- 
cistus ; growing about 6 inches high, it bears showy reddish flowers, 
but is very rare. 

Bryonia (Bryony). — The only hardy kind is our British Bryonia 
dioica, known also as the Devil's Turnip. It belongs to the Gourd 
family (Cucurbitaceae). It is a tuberous-rooted perennial, and sends 
up strong-growing shoots of annual duration, which are clothed with 
five-lobed leaves. When rambling over a fence or arbour it is decidedly 
ornamental, especially as the whitish flowers are succeeded by berries, 
which, when ripe, are bright red. This Bryonia will grow freely in 
almost any soil. 

Bryony. — {See Bryonia.) 



74 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Buckbean.— (5^5 Menyanthes.) 

Buckthorn, Sea.— (5^^ Hippophae.) 

Buddleia. — Vigorous shrubs or small trees (Natural Order 
Loganiaceae) from the Himalaya, China, Chili and Peru. With one 
exception the flowers are produced in racemes. In the case of Buddleia 
globosa, however, they are in globular heads. All thrive in loamy 
soil, and several are available for general cultivation, others being 
hardy only in the warmer counties. Propagation is usually carried 
on by means of cuttings, although seeds, which are produced in abund- 
ance, may also be sown. Pruning is referred to in the following 
notes. Buddleia Colvilei, a native of Sikkim, attains tree-like pro- 
portions in its native country, and grows quite well against walls 
in the milder parts of this country, where its handsome tubular flowers, 
each I inch or more in diameter and red or rose in colour, are pro- 
duced in long racemes in summer. Cut back the shoots after flow^ering. 
Buddleia globosa is an evergreen from Chili and Peru with globular 
heads of small golden flowers, which are very fragrant ; it is quite 
hardy ; no pruning is necessary except to keep the bushes shapely. 
Buddleia variabilis is a very variable plant from China, growing at 
least 10 feet high and bearing racemes of rosy-lilac flowers from July 
onwards. It is, however, surpassed in beauty and value by its varieties 
Veitchiana and magnifica, comparatively new kinds with racemes or 
branched panicles of flowers up to i^ or 2 feet in length. Both are 
excellent shrubs, suitable for general cultivation. They must be 
given rich, loamy soil and be pruned back to within i or 2 inches of 
the base of the previous season's growth each spring. The flowers 
are very popular with bees. 

Buddleia salicifolia is a handsome kind, with long and graceful 
racemes of fragrant white flowers, suitable for outdoor planting in 
the milder counties and for the greenhouse elsewhere. Prune hard 
after flowering. 

Buddleia oflicinalis is a new Chinese plant, rather tender, and 
usually grown under glass ; its rosy-lilac flowers are borne in winter. 
Prune hard after flowering. 

Bugbane. — (See Cimicifuga.) 

Bugle. — {See Ajuga.) 

Bulbocodium vernum (Spring Meadow Saffron). — A pretty little 
bulbous plant, much resembling a Crocus, from which it differs in 
minor botanical features. It is known also as Bulbocodium rutheni- 
cum, and belongs to the Lily family (Liliaceae). It grows to a height 
of 4 to 6 inches, and bears rosy-purple flowers quite early in spring. 
This Bulbocodium is a native of Spain, and succeeds under much the 




ROCK GARDEN IN A HOLLOW 



BUPHTHALMUM 75 

same conditions as a Crocus, the bulbs being planted about 2 inches 
deep. It is prolific in offsets ; hence the bulbs should be occasion- 
ally lifted and replanted in July or August. Slugs are particularly 
fond of the young shoots, and these pests must be guarded against. 

Bulrush. — {See Typha.) 

Buphthalmum {Ox Eye). — Showy perennials, members of the 
Daisy family (Compositae), that will thrive in ordinary garden soil, 
and may be readily increased by division, carried out in autumn. 
They are natives of Central and Southern Europe. The chief kinds 
are : salicifolium, bearing large, solitary, and bright yellow flowers 
in summer, 2 feet ; speciosum (also known as cordifoHum, and Telekia 
speciosissima) is a much stronger plant, for it grows from 5 to 6 feet 
high. The large leaves are thickly clothed with hairs, and the yellow 
flower-heads have a striking appearance during the latter part of 
summer. The Buphthalmums are particularly adapted for the wild 
or semi-wild portions of the garden ; they are rather too coarse for 
the border proper. 

Bupleurum {Hare's £"flr).— Plants belonging to the Natural Order 
Umbelliferae, and for the most part of little interest or beauty. Some 
are annuals, others are perennials, while one at least is a shrub. This 
is Bupleurum fruticosum, native of Spain. It forms a much-branched 
bush from 3 to 6 feet in height, clothed with oblong, glaucous leaves 
that persist during winter ; the yellow flowers, in small umbels, 
appear late in summer, but do not add much to the beauty of the 
plant, of which the most notable feature is the grey-blue foliage.- 
This shrub is rather apt to get bare at the base, and may be cut back 
hard in April. Cuttings taken in August, and placed in a frame 
kept closed and shaded, soon root, or they may be taken in October 
and inserted in a sheltered border out-of-doors. There are many 
other species, but this is practically the only one worth growing. 

Bupleurum fruticosum is singular amongst hardy shrubs as 
being the only one belonging to the 
Natural Order Umbelliferae that can 
be grown out-of-doors. It is native 
of the Mediterranean region, and may 
be grown as a bush in the south-west 
and against a wall elsewhere ; its 
glaucous-green, oblong leaves are ever- 
green, and the yellowish flowers in 
fair-sized umbels or flatfish bunches 
appear in August. Increase may be 
by seeds ; plant in loamy soil and spring meadow saffron 




76 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

prune in spring to keep the plants shapely and within bounds. The 
flower-heads must be removed when the blooms are over. 

Bur Marigold. — {See BiDENS.) 

Burning Bush. — (See Dictamnus.) 

Butcher's Broom. — (See Ruscus.) 

Butomus umbellatus (Flowering Rush). — The only species is a 
British plant, common in swampy places throughout the country. 
It belongs to the Natural Order Alismaceae. It forms a tuft of up- 
right, sharp-edged leaves some 2 to 3 feet high. The erect flower 
stem, which well overtops the foliage, is terminated by an umbel 
of rose-coloured blossoms during the summer months. The Flowering 
Rush thrives in boggy ground, and is readily increased by division, 
best carried out in early spring before growth recommences. It is 
a first-rate plant for the margins of lakes and similar spots, or for 
the water garden. 

Butterfly Tulip. — (See Calochortus.) 

Buxus (Box). — This group, which belongs to the Spurge family 
(Euphorbiaceae), is composed of a few evergreen trees or shrubs, 
natives of Europe, North Africa, South Africa, the Himalaya, China, 
and Japan. One, sempervirens, is found wild in England, notably 
on Box Hill, in Surrey ; the hardy sorts are extremely useful by 
reason of their decorative effect and their ability to withstand severe 
clipping. The last qualification, added to a dense branch system, 
has led to Buxus sempervirens, the Common Box, being used extensively 
for topiary work, and plants clipped into all kinds of grotesque forms 
may be procured. Such plants live for a very long period, and are 
kept in shape by clipping the young shoots back once or twice during 
summer. There are many varieties of the Common Box ; pendula, 
with graceful drooping branches, forms the best specimen plant ; 
Handsworthii, latifolia, and pyramidalis are excellent kinds for hedges ; 
elegantissima and argentea have silver- variegated leaves ; aurea 
maculata, aurea pendula, and aurca marginata have golden-marked 
foliage ; prostrata is of creeping habit ; rosmarinifolia is renowned for 
its close growth and tiny narrow leaves ; whilst suffniticosa is a com- 
pact, low-growing kind in great demand as an edging to borders and 
paths. The last-named and those grown as hedges must be clipped 
once a year, but those grown as specimen plants require no other 
pruning than that necessary to make them shapely. They thrive in 
ordinary garden soil, and are increased by cuttings, or, in the case 
of Edging Box, by division. The wood of most of the Buxus or Boxes 
is very hard, close-grained, and valuable for engraving blocks, the 
mamifacturc of mathematical instruments, etc. In addition to the 



CACTUS 77 

Common Box (Buxus sempervirens) the following are worth mention : 
balearica, a small tree with leaves upwards of an inch long, found 
in the Balearic Islands and about the Black Sea ; Harlandi, a Chinese 
shrub, with pale green rounded leaves ; Chinensis, distinct by reason 
of its low, stiff habit and long, narrow leaves ; Wallichiana, a native 
of the Himalaya, a very distinct kind, its leaves are dark green, if to 
2| inches long and barely ^ inch wide. 

Cacalia. — {See Emilia.) 

Cactus. — The term Cactus is applied to a great variety of succu- 
lent plants, natives of the dry and arid regions of the warmer portions 
of the globe, and belonging to the Natural Order Cactaceae. Some 
are occasionally used for associating with other succulent plants for 
summer bedding, but most of them require glass protection even in 
summer. The only hardy Cacti are a few of the Opuntias, namely, 
monacantha, Rafinesqui, and vulgaris, all natives of North America. 
They have flowers of some shade of yellow, produced during the 
summer months. They resent an excess of moisture, hence should 
be planted in a sunny, well-drained spot, and if protected from heavy 
rains in winter, so much the better. Light sandy soil at the foot 
of a greenhouse or wall and a south aspect fulfil their needs. 

Caesalpinia.— This is a large genus, composed principally of 
tropical plants, very few of which can be considered to be of much 
importance in the garden. They belong to the Pea family. Two 
sorts, however, japonica from Japan and Gilliesii from South America, 
both very beautiful flowering shrubs, are sometimes grown out-of- 
doors in this country. Caesalpinia japonica forms a wide-spreading 
bush with long, rambling, spiny branches, clothed with large bright 
green leaves divided into numerous small lobes, and produces in summer 
large panicles of golden flowers. Gilliesii must be grown against a 
south or west wall, when it will attain a height of 20 feet ; its many- 
parted leaves are very beautiful, but its chief charm centres in the 
immense terminal inflorescences of large golden flowers with long red 
stamens. Light, loamy soil is suitable. The last-named kind requires 
little pruning ; the branches of the other should be shortened in spring. 
Caesalpinia japonica is increased by root cuttings, and Gifliesii by seeds. 

Calami ntha. — Pretty herbaceous plants, native of northern 
temperate regions, nearly related to the Sage and members of the 
same family (Labiatae). They are easily grown in ordinary garden 
soil. The principal species are Acinos, which grows about 6 inches 
high ; alpina, a small, creeping plant well suited for rockwork ; cheno- 
podium (Wild Basil) and grandiflora, about i foot high, all of which 
bear purple flowers in summer. 



jS THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Calandrinia {Rock Purslane). — The principal hardy kinds (Natural 
Order Portulaceae) are natives of Chili, and they all thrive in a light, 
sunny, well-drained spot. With the exception of umbellata, they are 
annuals, seeds of which may be sown out-of-doors in early spring. 
Some gardeners raise them under glass, but this is by no means neces- 
sary* ; all flower during the summer months. The best are : grandi- 
flora, which grows about i8 inches high and bears large rose-coloured 
blossoms with yellow anthers ; and Menziesii or speciosa, which only 
reaches about half the height of the others, and bears purpUsh-crimson 
flowers. Calandrinia umbellata, as above stated, is a perennial suit- 
able for the rockery ; it reaches a height of about 9 inches, and the 
rich magenta-crimson flowers appear throughout the summer. 

Calceolaria {Slipper Wort). — A remarkably shoNW class of plants, 
most oi which are natives of South America ; they belong to the Snap- 
dragon family (Scrophulariaceae). Some of them are very orna- 
mental, and have been crossed and intercrossed to such an extent 
that the garden varieties are now almost endless. Those termed 
Herbaceous Calceolarias are solely used for the decoration of the 
greenhouse, but many of the garden varieties are largely employed 
for simimer bedding. Of the true species, especial mention may be 
made of Calceolaria amplexicauhs, a tall-growing kind with lemon- 
coloured flowers ; it is much used for summer beds and w ill con- 
tinue to flower until frosts set in. Calceolaria integrifolia is quite a 
shrub, and in the West of England it is remarkably fine, the golden- 
yellow blossoms being chiefly borne during the autumn months. In most 
parts of the country it cannot, however, be depended upon out-of-doors 
unless in an especially sheltered spot. Calceolaria plantaginea is a 
hardy herbaceous plant about i foot high, of which the rich yeUow 
flowers are borne in the summer. A fairly cool, moist soil suits it 
best. Another hardy kind is polvThiza, a creeping plant about 
6 inches high, the yellow flowers of which are slightly dotted with 
red ; it is a charming rockery plant. 

The garden forms are exceedingly numerous, included among 
them being Burbidgei, that grows to a height of 4 to 6 feet, and is 
generally met with in parks and gardens during summer ; Chbrani, 
an exceedingly floriferous kind, with pale yellow flowers, which 
does not, however, bloom throughout the season ; Golden Gem, rich 
golden- yellow, one of the best for bedding ; Golden Glory, a hardy 
kind, with large yellow flowers ; Sultan, bright crimson-brown, 
and numerous others. 

The herbaceous kinds can be increased by division, and the others 
are readily propagated by means of cuttings, which, put in sandy 




A BORDER OF CLARKIA AND OTHER ANNUALS 



CALENDULA 79 

soil in a closed propagating case, will strike at almost any season 
of the year. The usual time, however, for putting in cuttings of the 
bedding varieties is in September ; they are dibbled in pots or boxes 
of sandy soil, and kept shaded from bright sunshine until rooted. 
They only require protection from frost during the winter, for Cal- 
ceolarias particularly resent being " coddled " at that season. In 
early spring they may be potted singly in readiness for bedding out 
late in May or early June. 

Calendula (Mangold). — Far and away the best of the Calendulas, 
which belong to the Daisy family (Compositae), is the common Mari- 
gold or at all eventssome of the varieties which have been obtained 
from it. The Marigold is a persistent bloomer, and even under the 
most adverse conditions in town gardens its golden-yellow blossoms 
enliven up an otherwise dull spot. This remark refers to the common 
kind, which springs up from seed ever5rwhere, but by a process of 
selection many greatly improved varieties have been obtained. Promi- 
nent among the best are Lemon Queen, soft lemon-yellow ; Meteor, 
orange-yellow, striped lemon-yellow ; Orange King, brilliant orange, 
very double ; Prince of Orange, orange, striped pale yellow ; and 
Yellow Queen, golden-yellow. Other kinds are : arvensis, yellow, 
2 feet high, and Maderensis, orange. They are raised from seed 
sown under glass in March or out-of-doors in April. 

Californian Poppy.— {See Eschscholtzia.) 

Calla palustrls {Marsh Calla). — A pretty little bog plant, with 
rich green oval leaves, and during the summer a profusion of small 
white flowers suggestive of a miniature form of the Arum Lily. It 
is native of the Northern Hemisphere, and belongs to the Natural 
Order Aroideae. The entire plant when in bloom is not more than 
9 inches in height, 

Callicarpa purpurea is a shrubby member of the Verbena family 
(Verbenaceae), and a native of China and Japan, It is hardy 
in the milder parts of the British Isles, but gives more satisfactory 
results when grown in a greenhouse. It forms long slender branches, 
which bear large quantities of small flowers during summer, and 
these are followed by a profusion of purple fruits. The plant is grown 
for its fruit alone, as neither leaves nor flowers have any pretensions 
to beauty. It must be grown from cuttings rooted in spring, and 
be given a compost of 3 parts loam, i part leaf-mould and well-rotted 
manure, and i part sand. Old plants may be pruned hard back 
in spring, and be kept for another year if necessary. There are several 
other kinds, but purpurea is the best for pots. Callicarpa japonica, 
a native of Japan, is most often tried out-of-doors. 



82 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

one, a good selection therefrom being : albus, pearly-white, lined 
with silky hairs ; amoenus, rosy-purple ; Benthamii, rich yellow ; 
clavatus, bright yellow, large flower ; elegans, white, purple base ; 
Howcllii, creamy-white, brown hairs in centre ; Kennedyii, bright 
scarlet ; lilacinus, lilac ; luteus, yellow ; macrocarpus, violet-blue ; 
Maweanus, white, lined with blue hairs ; Plummerae, satiny-lilac ; 
pulchellus (Cyclobothra pulchella) and venustus, represented by 
numerous varieties, but all have the eye-like spots characteristic of 
the butterfly, in the interior of the flower. 

Calophaca wolgarica belongs to the Pea family (Leguminosae), 
and is native of South Russia. It forms a rather loose bush, 3 or 4 
feet high, and is recognised by its small pinnate leaves and yellow 
Pea-shaped flowers, which appear in racemes in June. Although 
often grafted upon stocks of Colutea arborescens, it gives better 
results on its own roots, and should be grown from seed. Loamy 
soil suits its requirements, and pruning is unnecessary. A simny 
position is desirable, and it may be given a place about the summit 
of the rockery. 

Caltha {Marsh Marigold). — The Calthas are a race of moisture- 
loving herbaceous perennials, belonging to the Buttercup family 
(Ranunculaceae), and natives, for the most part, of the Northern 
Hemisphere. They are seen at their best when treated as water- 
side plants, and luxuriate under such conditions ; they are readily 
increased by division during the dormant season. Except in Caltha 
leptosepala (which is white), the flowers of the species are of some 
shade of yellow, and are produced in spring and early summer. One 
species, namely Caltha palustris. is a native of Great Britain ; this 
reaches a height of about 12 inches, and has large golden-yellow 
blossoms. The varieties of this kind are numerous, there being alba, 
white ; flore pleno, double ; minor, smaller than the type ; mon- 
strosa plena, very large ; semi-plena, semi-double. Polypetala, which 
reaches a height of 18 inches, and has very large leaves and blos- 
soms of rich golden-yellow colour, is native of Asia Minor. 

Calvary Clover. — {See Medicago Echinus.) 

Calycanthus.— The several members of this group (Natural 
Order Calycanthaceae) are known as Allspice, by reason of the peculiar 
fragrance of their reddish-brown, many-petalled flowers. Three hardy 
kinds have been introduced : floridus and glaucus from the Southern 
United States, and occidentalis from California. The last-named is 
the most vigorous shrub, for it sometimes grows 8 or 10 feet and 
10 feet across. As a rule, however, it is from 4 to 5 feet high. Caly- 
canthus glaucus is a very similar plant, except that the under-sides 





THE CROSSWORT (CRUCIANELLA 
STYLOSA) 



FLOWERS OF ONE OF THE ANNUAL 
CHRYSANTHEMUMS 





DOUBLE WHITE FEVERFEW CANTERBURY BELL (CAMPANULA 

(CHRYSANTHEMUM PARTHENIUM) MEDIUM) 



CALYPSO BOREALIS 83 

of the leaves are glaucous. They enjoy a sunny position in light 
loamy soil, and may be increased by seeds, cuttings, or division of 
the plants. No regular pruning is required ; simply thin the plants 
now and then, and cut them back in spring if they are outgrowing 
their positions. The flowers are borne during summer. 

Calypso boreal is. — This, which is the only member of the genus, 
is a terrestrial Orchid (Natural Order Orchidaceae), native of cold 
districts in the Northern Hemisphere. It produces a solitary leaf 
and a slender stem, about 12 inches high, bearing a single flower. 
The blossoms, which in shape are a good deal similar to those of a 
Cypripedium, are pink marked with brown, with a yellow crest on 
the lip. The Calypso needs a moist position and a soil largely con- 
sisting of peat and leaf-mould. It is not an easy plant to maintain 
in a flourishing state. Summer flowering. 

Calystegia {Bear Bind).— Some of our most troublesome weeds 
belong to this group, among them being the Hedge Bindweed, Caly- 
stegia sepium (Natural Order Convolvulaceae), of which the large 
white flowers are very showy, but owing to its long creeping shoots 
it is difficult to eradicate once it gets into garden ground: The only 
one grown for its ornamental qualities is pubescens, also known as 
hederacea. This is vigorous, and bears a profusion of double rose- 
coloured blossoms for a long time during the summer. For furnishing 
screens and trellises at that season it is very attractive, but it is as 
troublesome to get rid of as the common Bindweed. 

Camassia. — Pretty flowering bulbous plants, natives of North- 
West America and belonging to the Lily family (Liliaceae). They 
produce an erect flower stem varying from i foot to 2 feet in height ; 
the flowers, which open in May and June, are borne on the upper 
part, and vary from white to blue. The bulbs prefer a rather moist, 
loamy soil, and should be planted in autumn at a depth of 4 to 5 inches. 
The chief species are : Cusickii, pale blue ; esculenta, deep blue ; 
Fraserii, light blue ; and Leichtlinii, creamy-white. 

Camellia. — This is a very important group, both from decora- 
tive and economic points of view, for on the one hand it includes 
a considerable number of valuable evergreens and ornamental flower- 
ing shrubs, and on the other hand one of its members is the common 
Tea plant. It belongs to the Natural Order Ternstroemiaceae. The 
seeds of various kinds are also rich in oil, which is extracted and 
forms an article of commerce. They are natives of China and Japan, 
and the best known in this country is japonica, which is represented 
by a large number of varieties bearing single, semi-double, or double 
flowers, of all shades from white to pink and deep red. Although 



84 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

generally grown in a cool greenhouse, they are hardier than many 
people imagine, and there are numerous gardens in the South of 
England where large bushes grow luxuriantly in the open ground, 
and they blossom almost every year. When grown out-of-doors they 
give less trouble than when planted in borders under glass, providing 
they have well-drained, warm soil. Pruning is not often necessary 
except for the purpose of shaping the bushes, but if plants are be- 
coming thin about the base they may be cut hard back in spring. 

Plants under glass may be grown in pots or borders, but in which- 
ever way they are grown they must be given thorough drainage, for 
anything approaching sourness of the soil or improper drainage is 
against the perfection of the flowers. Complaints are frequently 
made about bud-dropping of Camellias, and the cause may often 
be traced to unsatisfactory soil or drainage. Broken bricks, covered 
by clinkers, form excellent drainage for beds, and over that a layer 
of turves should be placed, grass side downwards. From i^ to 2 feet 
of soil will be ample, and the compost should consist of 3 parts loam, 
I part peat, and i part coarse sand. Propagation is effected by 
grafting the varieties upon stocks of the type under glass in spring. 

Good varieties are : Chandleri elegans, rose ; alba plena, double 
white ; Contessa Lavinia Maggii, white, red stripes ; C. H. Hovey, 
crimson ; imbricata, a fine double red ; Marchioness of Exeter, rose ; 
Mathotiana, large double red ; M. alba, white ; Thomas Moore, car- 
mine. Donckelaarii, a deep red semi-double, is one of the best kinds 
for outdoor planting. 

Among the species or wild types are : reticulata, a handsome 
Chinese plant, requiring greenhouse shelter, the red flowers are semi- 
double and very large ; rosaeflora, a native of Cliina, has pretty little 
double rose-coloured flowers, scarcely i| inches across ; Sasanqua 
is a Chinese and Japanese bush, with small ovate leaves, it bears 
single or double flowers, 2 to 3 inches across ; there are many varieties. 
Camellia theifera, the common Tea plant, which bears white flowers 
about i^ inches across, is worth growing as a plant of more than 
general interest. The dried young leaves fonn the tea of commerce. 

Campanula {Bell Flower). — A very large group (Natural Order 
Campanulaceae), consisting chiefly of hardy herbaceous perennials ; 
the flowers of nearly all are white or of some shade of blue. While 
some of the alpine species need care and attention, most of them 
flourish under ordinarily favourable conditions. Most of the Cam- 
panulas are natives of Europe, but a few of them are found in Northern 
Asia. All have more or less beU-shaped flowers, hence the popular 
name of Bell Flower: 




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CAMPANULA 85 

There are a few annual kinds, namely, drabaefolia, a dense-growing 
little plant, with purple-blue flowers ; ramosissima (Loreyii) grows 
about 18 inches high, its violet-blue flowers are borne during the 
summer months ; and macrostyla, from the Taurus Mountains, a 
strange-looking plant, with stiff, hairy stems and erect, solitary blue 
flowers. The two first-named may be sown in the open ground, but 
the last needs to be sown on a warm, sheltered border. 

Of biennial Campanulas, only one species need be mentioned, 
namely, the Canterbury Bell (Campanula Medium). This, represented 
by several forms, is probably grown to a far greater extent than any 
other. Canterbury Bells are largely employed for greenhouse decora- 
tion, but more particularly for the embellishment of the outdoor 
garden. For the latter purpose the seed is sown in May or June, 
and when the young plants are sufficiently advanced they are planted 
out in prepared beds until the border is ready for them in which 
they are to flower the next year. The extent to which the varieties 
differ from the type in the case of the Canterbury Bell is truly remark- 
able, for not only does the normal form bear flowers of different shades 
of rose, white, and blue, but there are varieties with double blossoms, 
in which the range in colour is just as great. Added to these there 
is a singular form known as Campanula Mediiun calycanthema, in 
which the calyx is large and spreading and of the same colour as 
the corolla ; this is popularly termed the Cup and Saucer Canterbury 
Bell ; the same colours are also represented in this as in the ordinary 
form. When Canterbury Bells are flowering in the outdoor garden, 
especial care should be taken to see that they do not seed ; if the 
old flowers are cut off as soon as they are past their best, a secondary 
and fairly effective display will be the result; 

The different perennials may be divided into two classes : firstly, 
those of vigorous growth, which may be planted in the herbaceous 
border and simflar positions ; and secondly, the low-growing kinds, 
suitable for the rock garden. 

A selection of the best of the taUer growers includes alliariaefolia, 
2 feet, creamy- white ; glomerata, i| feet, blue ; grandiflora, i| feet, 
blue ; Hendersonii, 12 inches, mauve ; lactiflora, 2 feet, white, tinged 
blue ; latifolia, 4 feet, blue ; and persicifoha, 3 feet. The last-named 
is the finest of all the border Campanulas, and there are many varieties 
with double and single flowers in blue and white. Campanula pyra- 
midalis and its variety alba, which reach a height of 4 to 6 feet, are 
very effective in the outdoor garden during summer. Other kinds 
are : Trachelium, 3 feet, blue ; Trachehum flore pleno, 3 feet, blue, 
double ; and Van Houttei, 2 feet, blue. 



86 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Dwarf kinds suitable for rockwork and similar positions are : 
carpatica, of which there are several varieties ; G. F. Wilson, purplish- 
blue ; garganica, blue, with white eye ; isophylla, blue ; isophylla 
alba, white ; muralis, pale blue ; pulla, deep purple ; pusilla, blue 
and white ; Rainerii, blue ; turbinata, different shades of blue and 
white ; and Waldsteiniana, light blue. All of these Campanulas 
flower during the summer months. Campanula rotundifolia, a native 
spieces, is in different parts of the United Kingdom known by the 
names of Bluebell and Harebell, It grows about i foot high. 

Tlie following are the most difficult of the rock garden Cam- 
panulas : Allioni, very dwarf, pale blue, is best in the moraine ; 
alpina, 6 inches, with blue-fringed flowers, likes loam containing 
lime ; cenisia, dwarf, blue, star-shaped blooms, must be grown in 
the moraine ; excisa, with miniature, drooping, purple flowers, needs 
similar treatment ; Rainerii, having somewhat larger flowers, is best 
in the moraine ; so, too, is Zoysii, a tiny plant with blue tube-shaped 
flowers. The other dwarf-growing kinds named like gritty soil and 
either a half-shady or sunny spot. 

Campion, Rose. — {See Lychnis.) 

Canary Grass. — (See Phalaris.) 

Candytuft. — {See Iberis.) 

Canna {Indian Shot). — There are comparatively few species of 
Canna (Natural Order Scitamineae), but there are innumerable garden 
varieties of great value for various decorative purposes. They are 
largely used for bedding during the summer months, and, from their 
bold, handsome foliage, varying from light glaucous green to bronzy- 
red, and blossoms of many colours, they form an imposing feature. 
The cultivation is not at all difficult ; the chief point to remember 
is that they need rich soil. Manure should be incorporated with the 
soil, while they must not be allowed to suffer from want of water. 
Cannas form creeping underground roots or rhizomes, as they are 
termed ; if these are divided in spring, each piece with a growing 
point will form a separate plant if it is potted singly and placed in 
a warm greenhouse. Plants obtained in this way are of useful size 
for bedding out in June. At the first approach of frost, the clumps 
should be lifted and placed where they are safe, but are at the same 
time not subjected to much heat. During the winter they may be 
kept dry, for they remain totally dormant. Cannas may be used 
in pots or tubs, and are then useful for standing on terraces, bal- 
conies, and in similar positions during summer. Seeds can be bought 
cheaply, and young plants are readily raised in warmth. Owing 
to their excessive hardness, whence the name of Indian Shot is derived, 



CANNABIS SATIVA 87 

the seeds take some time to germinate unless they are assisted in 
some way ; this is done by fihng the hard outer surface of the seeds, 
or by soaking them in warm water for twenty-four hours previous 
to sowing. Raising from seed is, however, scarcely to be recom- 
mended, as rhizomes or roots of the best kinds, when dormant, can 
be purchased cheaply. 

The following varieties can be recommended : Adolf Grimmonger, 
clear carmine ; A. Ortmann, velvety-purple ; Due Ernst, reddish- 
scarlet ; Duke of York, crimson, golden border ; EHzabeth Hoss, 
canary- yellow, spotted red ; Evolution, rich golden-yellow, pink 
centre ; Frau E. Kracht, rosy-salmon ; Furst Weid, crimson ; J. B. 
Van der Schoot, yellow, purple spots ; King Humbert, orange-scarlet ; 
Niagara, scarlet, gold margin ; Ottawa, rosy-cerise ; R. Wallace, 
canary-yellow ; Stuttgartia, orange-scarlet, edged light yellow ; The 
Gaikwar of Baroda, rich yellow, large crimson spots ; and William 
Saunders, bright scarlet. 

Cannabis sativa {Hemp). — An easily grown hardy annual, be- 
longing to the Nettle family (Urticaceae), and native of India, that 
will succeed in ordinary garden soil. The seeds are usually sown 
in March, in the greenhouse, though they may be sown out-of-doors 
in April. Apart from its economic value, the Hemp, owing to its 
elegantly cut leaves, is decidedly ornamental. It is frequently used 
for sub-tropical bedding. There is an extra vigorous variety known 
as the Giant Hemp, which is employed for this purpose even more 
than the typical kind. 

Canterbury Bell — {See Campanula Medium.) 

Caragana. — This group of deciduous shrubs, belonging to the 
Pea family (Leguminosae), consists of a number of ornamental species 
which are generally hardy throughout the British Isles. They are 
natives of Siberia, Central Asia, Japan, etc., and most of them thrive 
in ordinary garden soil, preferring that of a loamy character. They 
are usually grown from seeds, but certain varieties are grafted upon 
stocks of their respective types, the work being conducted under 
glass in spring. Very little pruning is necessary, save when plants 
are outgrowing their positions ; then they are cut back somewhat 
after flowering ; a little pruning to keep them shapely is all that is 
required at other times. They may be planted in shrubberies or grown 
singly as specimen plants. The chief kinds are : arborescens, a 
Siberian shrub, v/hich grows 12 to 15 feet high, it bears yellow Pea- 
shaped flowers in May — there are several distinct varieties, nana 
being dwarf and compact, pendula is a variety with weeping branches, 
whilst Redowskii is very striking by reason of its long vigorous 



88 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

branches, which often assume a pendent character ; aurantiaca is a 
slender-growing busli, 2 to 3 feet high, which bears its bronze and 
orange flowers freely ; frutescens is widely distributed from Southern 
Russia across Central Asia to Japan, it grows from 10 to 12 feet high, 
and produces yellow flowers freely in May ; grandiflora, angustifoha, 
and pendula are well-marked varieties. 

Carbenia benedicta {Blessed Thistle). — A hardy annual (also 
known as Cnicus benedictus), member of the Daisy family (Com- 
positae), and native of Southern Europe ; it bears heads of pale 
yellow blossoms. It is not, however, the flowers that form the most 
attractive feature of this plant, but the handsome leaves. These are 
much cut, with somewhat spiny margins, and are blotched and 
marbled with silvery-white. From seed sown in spring out-of-doors, 
this Thistle will grow in any ordinary garden soil ; it forms a pleasing 
feature in the herbaceous border or front of the shrubbery. 

Cardamine {Bitter Cress). — An extensive group of low-growing 
plants, natives of the temperate regions of both hemispheres, and 
belonging to the Wallflower family (Cruciferae). Many of them are 
but weeds. The perennials most useful for garden purposes are : 
macrophylla, which reaches a height of about 12 inches, and bears 
spikes of purple blossoms during summer ; pratensis fiore pleno, a 
double-flowered variety of our own Cuckoo flower or Ladies' Smock, 
with hlac blossoms ; and trifolia, a pretty little spreading evergreen 
plant, of which the pure white flowers are borne in spring. All are 
easily increased by division, which is best carried out immediately 
after flowering or during the dormant season. 

Cardinal Flower. — {Se'e Lobelia cardinalis.) 

Carduus {Thistle). — A family of Thistles of no ornamental value, 
which will thrive in any ordinary garden soil. They belong to the 
Daisy family (Compositae): Many plants that used to be included 
in this genus are now classed under another name, e.g. Cnicus. 

Carex {Sedge). — The different Sedges (Natural Order Cyperaceae) 
occur generally in damp or marshy places throughout the greater 
part of the globe. The majority are of no horticultural value, being, 
in fact, under certain conditions troublesome weeds. For water- 
side planting the following are suitable : acuta variegata forms tufts 
of pretty grass-like foliage, striped with white ; gallica variegata 
has golden variegated fohage, about 8 inches in height ; Morrowii 
variegata is a pretty variegated Sedge, stronger in growth than the 
preceding ; pendula is a pretty waterside plant that will reach a 
height of 5 feet or so, and bears graceful spikes of blossoms ; and 
riparia variegata, growing 3 feet high, has clearly variegated leaves. 



CARLINA 89 

Carlina. — The two members of the genus Carhna (Natural Order 
Compositae) are very distinct and decidedly ornamental; Both of 
them are natives of the South of Europe. The first, Carlina acanthi- 
folia, has large-spreading pinnate, spiny leaves, from the centre of 
which arises a pretty white Thistle-like head some 2 feet high. The 
second, Carlina acaulis, is a remarkable plant, forming a flat rosette 
of dark green leaves, with a large head of white flowers resting in 
the centre ; the effect produced by the wide-spreading leaves and 
large flower cluster, of a height of only a few inches above the ground, 
is decidedly singular. Both are perennial, and will thrive in ordinary 
garden soil in a sunny spot. 

Carmichaelia is a curious and interesting group of shrubs, mem- 
bers of the Pea family (Leguminosae). The various species are natives 
of New Zealand, and are peculiar by reason of their slender, rush-like 
branches, which are sparingly clothed with small leaves. The Pea- 
shaped flowers are usually lilac in colour, and are produced freely 
during June and July. They are not generally hardy in the British 
Isles, but thrive in the South of England and in other places where 
a moderately mild winter temperature prevails. Propagation is by 
seeds or cuttings ; no pruning is necessary, and a mixture of peat 
and sandy loam forms a suitable soil. A sunny position is desirable 
in order that the branches may become thoroughly ripened. The 
chief species are : australis, Enysii, and flagelliformis. 

Carnation. — {See Dianthus.) 

Carpenteria californica is a very beautiful shrub belonging to 
the Natural Order Saxifragaceae. A native of California, it forms a 
bush 4 to 8 feet high, bearing narrow, oblong, evergreen leaves 3 to 
5 inches long. The white flowers are upwards of 2 inches across, with 
conspicuous tufts of golden stamens ; they are produced several 
together in short racemes during early summer. Although it is not 
generally hardy, it may be grown out-of-doors in sheltered corners 
in a good many gardens, whilst it is also adapted to planting against 
a wall or in a cool greenhouse. Propagation is by seeds and layers. 
Light and well-drained loamy soil, with a little leaf-mould or peat, 
suits it, whilst there is no necessity to prune more severely than the 
shaping of the bush demands. It is allied to the Mock Oranges, 
and the flowers, though larger, are similar. 

Carpi n us (Hornbeam). — Moderate-sized trees, suitable for orna- 
mental purposes or for planting under forest conditions (Natural 
Order Cupuliferae). They withstand a fair amount of shade, and 
may be planted as undergrowth to thicken up thin woods. The wood 
is hard, heavy, and durable, but is difficult to procure in large quan- 



90 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

tities. Increase is by seeds. Hornbeams thrive most satisfactorily 
on moderately heavy loam, although they may also be grown on light 
land. Wliilst the trees arc young, a certain amount of pruning is 
necessary each year in order to keep the leading shoots free from 
rivals, and the side branches from developing too rapidly in width. 
The numerous varieties are increased by grafting upon stocks of the 
Common Hornbeam. In all cases the flowers of the Hornbeam are 
inconspicuous, but the fruits are distinct and interesting. The grey- 
ish, smooth bark is also distinct, and produces a similar winter effect 
to that of the Beech. The chief kinds are : Betulus (Common Horn- 
beam), native of Europe and Western Asia, growing up to 50 feet 
high ; there are many varieties, of which asplenifolia, with cut leaves, 
columnaris and pyramidalis, of stiff, pyramidal outhne, and pendula, 
with weeping branches, are very distinct. Caroliniana is the American 
Hornbeam, a tall tree with softly pubescent leaves ; japonica and 
laxiflora are two graceful trees from Japan ; orientalis, the Oriental 
Hornbeam, is also a useful kind. 

Carya (Hickory). — Handsome trees (Natural Order Juglandaceae) 
closely related to the Walnuts and, like them, having handsome 
pinnate foliage. The leaves in most instances possess the attraction 
of turning a brilliant golden-yellow in autumn for two or three weeks 
previous to their fall. Nine or ten species have been introduced 
from the United States, where they form handsome trees, valuable 
alike for their timber and oily edible nuts. The timber is renowned 
for strength and elasticity. Several, notably tomentosa and olivae- 
formis, are grown on purpose for their nuts, which are used for dessert ; 
the nuts of the latter are received regularly in our markets under 
the name of Pecan or Peccan Nuts. In this country the trees are 
grown solely for decorative purposes, their best proportions being 
attained in deep loamy soil. Propagation is by seeds sown, when 
possible, where the trees are to grow ; but when transplanting is 
necessary, care should be taken to procure trees which are well furn- 
ished with fibrous roots. They are naturally deep rooting, and have 
a tendency to form long roots with a small amount of fibre. It is wise 
to plant them in permanent positions as early in life as possible. Prun- 
ing is necessary while the trees are young in order to keep them shapely 
and the leaders free. This may be done any time during summer. 
The principal kinds are : alba, shell bark Hickory, an upright-growing 
tree with large handsome leaves, which are very showy in autumn ; 
amara, this differs from the other kinds by bearing bitter instead 
of sweet nuts, it is less ornamental than the foregoing tree ; olivae- 
formis is one of the most important nut-bearers, it is, however, rather 



CARYOPTERIS MASTACANTHUS 



91 



too tender for general cultivation in the British Isles ; porcina, com- 
monly called the Pig-nut, is the hardiest of all, it bears large quantities 
of small hard-shelled nuts, which ripen well in this country when 
the summer is fairly warni ; sulcata is a handsome tree, and one of 
the best for timber ; tomentosa has perhaps the finest leaves of all, 
and they are, with those of alba, the most brilliantly coloured in 
autumn ; it is a strong-growing tree. 

Caryopteris Mastacanthus is a Chinese and Japanese shrub 
belonging to the Natural Order 
Verbenaceae. It grows from 2 to 
3 feet high with a similar spread, 
bears small, deeply-lobed, greyish- 
green leaves, and produces pretty 
heads of bright blue flowers in 
September ; the variety candicans 
bears white flowers. It is not very 
hardy, and usually gives the best 
results when planted in light loamy 
soil near the foot of a warm wall. 
The only pruning required is the 
removal of the flower-heads when 
the flowers fade. Propagation is 
by cuttings under glass. 

Cassandra calyculata {Leather 
Leaf). — This shrub, which is native 
of the Northern Hemisphere, and a 
member of the Heather family 
(Ericaceae), is perfectly hardy, and 
forms an upright bush 2 to 3 feet 
high with evergreen oblong leaves, 
and bears white flowers from the 
leaf axils in April or May. The 
variety latifolia grows somewhat 

taller than the typical kind, whilst nana is dwarfer and more com- 
pact and the best plant of the three. Moist, peaty soil or light loam 
free from lime is required ; propagation is by seeds, and pnining is 
unnecessary. 

Cassia.— The Cassias consist of an extensive group of trees and 
shrubs belonging to the Pea family (Leguminosae), and natives, for 
the most part, of the warmer regions of the globe. One of them, 
namely marylandica, is a sub-shrub, and is the only hardy kind. 
This, which dies almost to the ground during winter, produces annual 




A BLUE-FLOWERED SHRUB 
(Caryopteris Mastacanthus) 



92 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

shoots to a height of 3 feet or so ; these are clothed with neat pin- 
nate leaves, and bear on their upper part axillary racemes of bright 
yellow blossoms. This Cassia thrives best in a warm, well-drained 
soil and a sunny spot. The second species in general cultivation is 
corymbosa, which during winter requires the protection of a green- 
house, but is often used for bedding purposes in summer. It is an 
evergreen shrub with pinnate leaves of dark glossy green tint, and 
bears a profusion of golden yellow blossoms throughout the summer. 
It may be readily raised from cuttings, inserted in warmth in spring, 
and established plants can be wintered in an ordinary greenhouse. 
It is generally met with in the summer as a bush from 4 to 6 feet 
in height, and associated with Heliotrope, Solanum jasminoides, 
Browallia Jamesonii, etc. Cassia marylandica can be readily increased 
by division in autumn. 

Cassinia. — Evergreen shrubs, belonging to the Daisy family 
(Compositae), which are of decorative appearance by reason of their 
tiny bright-coloured leaves. Thus the undersides of the leaves and 
the young bark of Cassinia fulvida are golden in colour. In the case 
of Cassinia leptophylla the colouring is silver, whilst that of Vauvil- 
liersii is between the two. All are natives of New Zealand, and they 
are naturally of rather loose growth ; they, however, respond well 
to pruning, and become quite dense in time. Cuttings root well in 
summer and the plants thrive in light soil. Pruning may be prac- 
tised any time during summer. Cassinia Vauvilliersii is not very hardy. 

Cassiope. — Heath-like shrubs (Natural Order Ericaceae) which 
require similar soil conditions to the Heaths. Three species are in 
cultivation, fastigiata from the Alpine Himalaya, and h5^noides and 
tetragona from the alpine regions of the Northern Hemisphere. They 
are rather curious little plants by reason of the angled arrangement 
of the small dark green, scale-like leaves, from among which the white 
bell-shaped flowers appear during summer. Propagation is by seeds 
or cuttings ; no pruning is required. 

Castanea {Spanish Chestmit). — This is a small but important 
genus of timber trees (Natural Order Cupuliferae), including as its 
best-known representative the Spanish or Eating Chestnut (Castanea 
sativa); There are three kinds in cultivation, sativa from South 
Europe, North Africa, etc. ; pumila from the Southern United States, 
and dentata of North America, commonly called the American Chest- 
nut. The nuts of the common sort are an important product in Spain, 
France, and Corsica, whilst in the latter country a large business has 
developed within the last few years by the extraction of tannin from 
the wood. The timber bears a strong resemblance to Oak, and is 




SWEET WILLIAM PINK BEAUTY AND KNIPHOFIA TUCKII 



CASTANOPSIS CHRYSOPHYLLA 93 

used for similar purposes. A great deal of Chestnut wood from 
small clean-grown trees is split and used for fencing, whilst it is also 
serviceable for posts and stakes. The tree coppices well, and is often 
used for that purpose. Both the common Chestnut and its varieties 
are planted widely as decorative trees, but they are less beautiful 
than the Oaks for landscape effects. They prefer loamy soil, but are 
not very particular providing it is moderately deep. Propagation of 
the species is by sowing the nuts out-of-doors and of the varieties 
by grafting or budding upon the typical kind. Pruning is necessary 
each year, whilst the trees are young, in order to keep them shapely 
and well-balanced. Later it is confined to the removal of dead and 
broken branches during summer. Good varieties of Castanea sativa 
are asplenifolia, Downtoniana, and pyramidalis. Some varieties are 
little more than monstrosities. The typical kind often attains a 
height of 90 or lOO feet, with a trunk diameter of from 3 to 5 feet ; 
the bark has often a tendency to a spiral arrangement. 

Castanopsis chrysophylla {Golden-leaved Chestnut). — This tree 
(Natural Order Cupuliferae) is known as the Golden-leaved Chestnut 
by reason of the golden reverse of its evergreen leaves. It is native 
of Cahfornia. There are other kinds, but this is the only one of any 
importance in the British Isles. It is closely related to the Sweet 
Chestnut, differing by its evergreen leaves, which resemble those of 
the Evergreen or Holm Oak in outline, and by its fruits taking about 
fifteen months to ripen from the time when the flowers appear. Those 
of the Sweet Chestnut ripen the same year. In its native country it 
fonns a large tree ; here, a small tree or bush. It thrives in light 
loamy soil in the southern counties, and should only be pruned suffi- 
ciently to keep it shapely. Propagation is by seeds. A fairly shel- 
tered position on a lawn should be provided, or, if it is planted amongst 
other bushes or trees, it should be allowed proper space for develop- 
ment; 

Castor Oil Plant. — {See Ricinus.) 

Catalpa. — This is a very important group of decorative trees 
belonging to the Natural Order Bignoniaceae, natives of the United 
States, Japan, and China, the better-known kinds being from the 
first-named country with one exception, which comes from Japan. 
The Chinese kinds are of recent introduction, and are not in general 
cultivation yet ; some of them, however, promise to be as ornamental 
as the better-known sorts. All have large ornamental leaves, usually 
more or less heart-shaped, but sometimes rounded, with deep lobes. 
The flowers are usually large and conspicuous, and are borne in large 
terminal panicles during July or August. In some instances they 



CATHCARTIA VILLOSA 95 

Catch Fly. — (See Lychnis.) 

Cathcartia viliosa. — A Poppy-like perennial (Natural Order 
Papaveraceae), native of the Himalayas, that forms a tuft about 
12 inches in height ; the leaves are Vine-like, 3 inches across, and 
densely hairy, while the rich yellow flowers, 2 inches in diameter, 
are at their best in June. It thrives in a sheltered, sunny spot in 
light, well-drained soil, and may be increased by division in autumn. 
This Cathcartia is comparatively rare in gardens. 

Ceanothus {Mountain Sweet). — The Ceanothuses (Natural Order 
Rhamnaceae) occupy a prominent position amongst flowering shrubs, 
both by reason of their free blossoming character and because a 
number of them produce blue flowers, a colour which is uncommon 
amongst shrubs. They are natives of North America, the majority 
being found in California or other Western States, but a few occurring 
in other parts. The different kinds may be divided into two distinct 
groups by reason of the manner in which they produce their flowers. 
One group, composed of two or three species and a number of hybrids, 
bear flowers from the points of the current year's shoots during summer 
and early autumn, and the younger branches should be pruned back 
to within a few buds of the base each February. Weak shoots may 
be removed altogether, and if an old branch appears to be dying, it 
may be removed and a vigorous young shoot left to take its place. 
The other kinds, chiefly natives of Cahfornia, blossom in spring from 
shoots formed the previous year ; these must not be pruned until 
after the flowers are over, and it then depends how they are grown as 
to the amount of pruning required. It is customary to plant them 
against walls, as they are rather tender. When that is done all the 
side shoots must be cut back to within a bud or two of the main 
branches. But a few are grown in the open ground, and when that 
is the case pruning is unnecessary except for shaping the bushes. 
All may be increased by cuttings taken during July and inserted in 
sandy soil in a closed frame. Light but moderately good and well- 
drained loamy soil is suitable for all of them. It is unwise to plant 
any of the Ceanothus in very cold places, though the garden hybrids 
may be grown in many parts of the country, especially if a little dry 
Bracken is sprinkled amongst the branches during frosty weather. 
The following are the chief species and hybrids : americanus is a 
bush, 2 to 4 feet high, from the Eastern United States, it bears ter- 
minal heads of white or light-coloured flowers during summer and 
early autumn ; azureus is a Mexican shrub, 3 feet high, which blooms 
in summer and autumn ; between these two kinds hybrids have been 
raised and a system of intercrossing has resulted in a group of hand- 



96 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

some sorts which are very free-flowering, and offer a wide range of 
colour from white to pink and from mauve to deep blue. All bloom 
from July to October. Though usually grown in beds, they cUre some- 
times planted against walls. Good kinds are : Carmine Gem, carmine ; 
Ceres, rose ; Charles Detriche, dark blue ; Gloire de Versailles, rich 
blue ; grandiflora, blue, grandiflora alba, white ; Indigo, dark blue ; 
Lustre, rose-carmine ; and Rose Perle, rose. 

Ceanothus divaricatus is a spring-flowering evergreen with blue 
flowers ; integerrimus bears large heads of lilac flowers during late 
spring ; papillosus is a curious kind by reason of its leaves being 
covered by viscid glands, its blue flowers open during May ; rigidus 
is a handsome April-flowering kind, bearing rich deep blue blossoms ; 
thyrsiflonis, the Californian Lilac, is one of the hardiest of the spring- 
flowering set, its flowers are blue, whilst those of the var. griseus 
are pale lilac ; Veitchianus is a charming blue-flowered species with 
small evergreen leaves, it blooms in May. 

Cedrela Sinensis is the only member of this useful group of 
timber trees (belonging to the Natural Order Meliaceae) which is of 
any value for decorative planting in the British Isles. Of medium 
size, it resembles the Tree of Pleaven (Ailanthus glandulosa) in its 
foliage, which is its most decorative asset. It may be planted in warm, 
well-drained loamy soil, is increased by seeds, and attention to pruning 
is necessary during its early development, summer being the best time 
for the removal of superfluous branches. It is a native of China 
and Japan. Cedrela Toona, the Toon Tree of India, and odorata, 
the West Indian Cedar, are two important allied kinds ; the wood 
of the former is in request for many purposes, and amongst other 
things the timber of the latter is very largely used for cigar boxes. 

Cedronelia.— Of the members of this group, which belong to the 
Sage family (Labiatae), Cedronelia cana is a pretty Salvia-like plant, 
with spikes of bright red flowers borne during the summer months. 
It is a good plant for a warm border, where it reaches a height of 
i8 inches or so. The second to mention is Cedronelia triphylla, which 
used to be known as Dracocephalum Canariensis, and popularly as the 
Balm of Gilead ; in cold districts it is usually regarded as a green- 
house plant, but in the milder parts of the country it is quite hardy 
on a warm border in well-drained soil, and grows 3 feet or more high. 
The flowers, produced in long spikes during summer, are of bright 
purple colour ; the chief attraction of Cedronelia triphylla is, how- 
ever, not in the blossoms, but in the fragrant foliage. In former days, 
when 'it was more often grown than now, this Cedronelia was to be 
found in almost every greenhouse to supply cut sprays for the nose- 



CEDRUS 97 

gays of that period. Cedronella cana is a native of Mexico, while 
triphylla comes from the Canary Isles, the date of its introduction 
being as long ago as 1697. Both may be increased from cuttings 
put in a closed case in sandy soil in spring. 

Cedrus (Cedar). — This group of Conifers (Natural Order Coni- 
ferae) includes three handsome and popular evergreen trees : Libani 
is the Cedar of Lebanon, atlantica, the Atlas Mountain Cedar, and 
Deodara, the Deodar of the Himalaya. The last-named is the most 
important commercial tree, for its timber is in great request for build- 
ing purposes, etc., in certain parts of India. It is the most tender of 
the three, but can be grown in most parts of the British Isles, except 
where climatic conditions are very dry or the atmosphere impure. 
Old trees of the Lebanon Cedar, with their massive trunks and wide- 
spreading tabular heads of branches, are very picturesque, but fully- 
grown trees of the other kinds are not yet to be found in this country. 
As young trees, they are superior in their decorative qualities to the 
Lebanon Cedar, the glaucous-leaved forms being particularly hand- 
some. They must be increased by seeds, and should be planted in 
moist, but well-drained soil of fairly good quality. Very little pruning 
is necessary except to remove dead branches. The Cedars must be 
allowed ample space, for no tree looks worse when crowded by others 
or grown amongst cramped surroundings. They are, however, useful 
alike as isolated specimens, for groups or avenues. At one time grafted 
trees were sold by some nurserymen, and it may be that the practice 
still survives. Such plants must, however, always be left alone, 
for they are never satisfactory. 

Celastrus. — Climbing shrubs (Natural Order Celastraceae), of 
which the chief attraction lies in the showy fruits, which ripen during 
autumn and remain on the plants until the New Year. The outer 
parts of the fruits are golden, but when ripe the coat splits open and 
reveals the orange-coloured seeds within. They thrive in loamy soil, 
require plenty of space, are increased by seeds, and do not require 
regular pruning. Celastrus articulatus and scandens are the two 
most satisfactory kinds to plant ; the former is from China and Japan, 
and the latter from North America. 

Ceimisia. — ^The Celmisias are dwarf, Aster-like plants (Natural 
Order Compositae), natives chiefly of the mountainous districts of 
New Zealand ; the majority of them have a rosette-like cluster of 
lanceolate leaves, densely covered with long silky hairs. The flower- 
heads have usually white ray florets and a yellow disc, and are borne 
on firm, erect stems which overtop the foliage. The Celmisias are 
very difficult to cultivate successfully in this country ; owing to the 

H 



98 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

silky nature of the foliage, the dampness in winter often proves fatal 
to them, while at the same time they cannot well stand very sharp 
frosts. The conditions most favourable to their well-doing are a well- 
drained, sunny spot on rockwork, and a certain amount of protection 
from heavy rains in winter. There are about twenty-five species 
known to botanists, but comparatively few have been introduced. 
The best-known are : coriacea, with flower heads from i^ to 3 inches 
in diameter, the white ray florets being especially numerous ; Lind- 
sayi, altogether a smaller-growing plant ; holosericea, the hardiest ; 
and spectabilis, of which the florets are sometimes tinged with lilac. 
The Celmisias are increased by means of seeds, and need a soil con- 
sisting of loam and sand. 

Celosia. — The plumose varieties of Celosia (Natural Order Amar- 
antaceae) are very largely employed for summer bedding in the flower 
garden. Some of the colours are almost startling in their bright- 
ness, but judiciously used many striking effects may be produced. 
The various shades of purple, scarlet, and orange are freely repre- 
sented in the flowers of Celosia plumosa. In order to obtain plants 
for summer bedding, seed is sown towards the end of March or early 
in April, in a temperature of 50° to 60°. The seedlings will then 
make rapid progress, and care must be taken that they are not 
checked. As soon as they are large enough to handle the young 
plants are pricked off into pans or boxes of light soil. It will not be 
long before they are ready to pot singly in fiower-pots 3 to 4 inches 
wide. Throughout the whole of this period the plants must have 
a hght position in the greenhouse in order to prevent their becoming 
in any way " drawn." They are tender, and must not be planted 
out-of-doors before June. While Celosia plumosa is chiefly used 
for bedding, the Cockscomb (Celosia cristata) is sometimes em- 
ployed for the purpose. It should be given the same treatment as 
the other, and from its uncommon appearance is sure to attract 
attention. 

Ceisia. — Annual, biennial, and perennial herbs, natives principally 
of the Mediterranean region, most of them being hardy only in light 
soils and in a warm situation. They belong to the Snapdragon family 
(Scrophulariaceae). All are readily raised from seeds sown in spring 
or early summer. A selection of the best includes Arcturus, that 
reaches a height of about 4 feet, with branching spikes studded with 
yellow blossoms ; betonicaefolia, 3 feet high, flowers yellowish, marked 
inside with purplish-brown ; cretica (Cretan Mullein), which reaches 
a height of quite 6 feet, and bears erect spikes of rich golden-yellow 
blossoms with two brownish spots inside. All flower during the 




AN EDGING OF WHITE PINKS (MRS. SINKINS) 



CELTIS 99 

summer months, are best treated as biennials, and are usually grown 
in the greenhouse. 

Celtis. — Small trees, belonging to the Nettle family (Urticaceae), 
possessing very hard timber ; they are found in Southern Europe, the 
Caucasus, China, Japan, and North America. About eight species 
have been introduced, but none is widely grown as the decorative 
qualities are hmited to the golden colour of the leaves in autumn. 
They thrive in any ordinary garden soil, are increased by seeds, and 
require sufficient pruning when young to form shapely trees. Some 
of the chief kinds are : australis, caucasica, and occidentalis. 

Centaurea {Knapweed). — Most of the members of this group, 
which belong to the Daisy family (Compositae), are natives of Europe, 
though some occur in Asia, North Africa, and North America. They 
consist for the most part of herbaceous perennials, though some are 
annuals. Among the best of the annuals is Centaurea Cyanus (Corn- 
flower). In a wild state its brilliant blue flowers are very conspicuous, 
especially in cornfields, hence its popular name. Under cultivation 
various forms have been produced, so that now we can obtain seeds 
of deep blue, light blue, rose, and white-flowered sorts, while there is 
also a race with double flowers, and another in which the plants are 
dwarf. The Cornflower is a hardy annual, and may be sown either 
in autumn or spring in the open ground. Well-dug soil is necessary, 
and room for the plants to develop, as overcrowding is particularly 
harmful. Another delightful annual is Centaurea moschata (Sweet 
Sultan), which, like the preceding, is of great value as a cut flower. 
This reaches a height of i8 inches to 3 feet, and if seed does not form 
will continue in beauty for a long time. The blossoms are from 2 to 
3 inches in diameter, the finely-cut florets giving a particularly elegant 
appearance. While the typical kind has purple flowers, there are 
varieties in rose, yellow or white. Beside these, there is an improved 
race consisting of the varieties The Bride, white ; Bridesmaid, pale 
lemon-yellow ; Bridegroom, rose-pink ; and Honeymoon, bright 
golden-yellow. Other annuals include Centaurea americana, which 
reaches a height of about 3 feet and bears heads of reddish flowers, 
and depressa, somewhat like a low-growing Cornflower. 

The perennial kinds especially noteworthy for the beauty of their 
blossoms include Centaurea aurea, which reaches a height of 4 feet and 
bears Thistle-like heads of golden-yellow flowers ; babylonica, 8 feet 
or so high, with silvery fohage and yellow flowers ; dealbata, rosy- 
purple flowers, 2 feet ; glastifolia, yellow flowers in dense pyramids, 
while the foliage is also very graceful, height 4 feet ; macrocephala, a 
stately plant, with large golden-yellow flower-heads, height 4 feet ; 



100 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

montana (Perennial Cornflower), 2 feet high, and of which there are 
varieties bearing blue, red, sulphur, and white flowers ; ruthenica, a 
graceful plant, with straw-coloured blossoms, height 4 feet. All these 
perennial species will grow in ordinary garden soil, and can be readily 
increased by division during autumn or by seeds sown in spring. 

Some Centaureas are grown solely for summer bedding, their dis- 
tinctive character being the silvery whiteness of the leaves ; these 
consist for the most part of ragusina and ruthenica, of which there 
are some selected forms, namely, candidissima, a compact, shapely 
plant about 12 inches high with silvery white leaves ; Clementei, leaves 
of the same tint but deeply cut, while the plant reaches twice the height 
of the preceding ; and gymnocarpa, about the same height as Cle- 
mentei, but with the leaves less divided. Of these candidissima is 
often used as an edging to flower beds, while all of them are generally 
employed as " dot " plants among low-growing plants. These silvery- 
leaved kinds can be raised from seed sown under glass early in spring, 
but at times they vary somewhat in shade. This being the case, the 
very best forms are often increased by means of cuttings taken about 
the end of August, inserted in pots of sandy soil, and placed in a 
frame kept close and shaded until they are rooted, which will be in 
about a month. If the cuttings show signs of " damping off " a little 
air must be given for a time. These Centaureas need to be kept safe 
from frost during the winter. 

Centaury. — {See Centaurea.) 

Centranthus {Valerian). — These are pretty, free-flowering, herba- 
ceous annuals or perennials (Natural Order Valerianaceae) that pro- 
duce a succession of bloom throughout th^ summer. By far the 
showiest is the Common Valerian (Centranthus ruber), which reaches 
a height of about 3 feet, and bears terminal heads of rose-red flowers ; 
there is also a white variety. Other species are : Calcitrapa, a smaller 
grower than the preceding, and macrosiphon, with rosy-carmine 
flowers. The two last-named are annuals. 

Cephalanthera pallens. — There is but one species of this genus, 
namely Cephalanthera pallens, a pretty little terrestrial Orchid (Natural 
Order Orchidaceae), which reaches a height of about 9 inches, and 
bears in May and June distinct sulphur-coloured flowers. This Orchid 
thrives best in a soil mainly consisting of chalky loam. 

Cephalaria. — Strong - growing herbaceous perennials (Natural 
Order Dipsaceae) that reach a height of 5 to 7 feet. They grow freely 
in any garden soil, and may be readily increased by division. The 
Cephalarias are nearly related to the Teasels, and are more fitted for 
the wild garden than for association with border plants. The flower- 



CEPHALOTAXUS loi 

heads are very useful for cutting. The chief species are alpina, rich 
yellow, leucantha, creamy-white, and tatarica, sulphur-yellow. All 
of them flower in June and July. 

Cephalotaxus is a group of conifers (Natural Order Coniferae) 
closely allied to the Yews. There are four species : drupacea and pedun- 
culata, natives of Japan, and Fortunei and Ohveri from China. All 
form ornamental, wide-spreading bushes with long dark green leaves 
which have silvery lines on the under-side. There is, however, a variety 
of pedunculata, named fastigiata, which is of pyramidal outline. They 
thrive in any garden soil where lime is not present in quantity, require 
no other pruning save that which is necessary to keep the bushes 
shapely, and are usually increased by seeds. They form good, isolated 
specimens, and are useful for undergrowth in thin plantations of 
conifers. 

Cerastium {Mouse Ear Chickweed).—Lov/-gTowing perennials, 
belonging to the Pink family (Caryophyllaceae), which are well suited 
for planting in the rock garden or for carpeting beds in the flower 
garden. Some of them are little better than weeds. The best are 
alpinum, a creeping plant, the leaves clothed with silky hairs, flowers 
white in June and July ; arvense and its var. grandiflorum, of which 
the white flowers are borne all the summer ; Biebersteinii, a vigorous 
kind, similar to tomentosum, but with larger leaves and flowers ; 
glacialis, bearing comparatively large white flowers during summer, 
a good rockery plant, and tomentosum, known popularly as Snow 
in Summer. The last-named is a small creeping plant, with oblong- 
shaped silvery leaves ; the plants should be grown in a spot fully 
exposed to the sun. It is the best white-leaved plant in cultivation 
for summer bedding, will thrive in almost any soil, and can be readily 
increased by division in autumn. 

Ceratostigma plumbaginoides.— Also known as Plumbago 
Larpentae. A charming autumn flowering plant (Natural Order 
Plumbaginaceae) for the rock garden, where on a spot well exposed 
to the sun the slender, wiry stems bear a profusion of brilliant cobalt 
blue flowers, disposed in terminal heads. Not only is it one of the 
most delightful of autumn flowers, but at that season the leaves take 
on a distinct reddish tinge. It needs a well-drained sandy loam, 
and can be readily increased by division in early spring. 

Cercis Siliquastrum {Judas Tree). — An interesting small tree 
or large shrub belonging to the Pea family (Leguminosae). It is a 
native of the Mediterranean region, and its common name originated 
from the legend that it was a tree of the same species upon which 
Judas Iscariot hanged himself after the betrayal of the Saviour. It 



102 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

has considerable value as a decorative tree, for its rosy-red Pea- 
shaped flowers are borne in profusion from young and old wood alike 
during May. There is also a variety with white flowers, and several 
other species may be procured. Of the latter, canadensis is the Red- 
bud of North America ; occidentalis is from California ; semiformis 
is a native of Texas ; and Chinensis of China. All are, however, inferior 
in general beauty to the Judas Tree. They thrive in well-drained 
loamy soil, are usually increased by seeds, and require no other pruning 
save the removal of dead wood occasionally. Anyone growing these 
trees must be prepared for the loss of branches now and then owing 
to the Coral-spot Fungus (Nectria cinnabarina), a disease to which 
the wood is particularly susceptible. All wounds must be dressed 
at once with coal-tar in order in minimise the chances of the spread 
of the fungus. 

Oestrum. — Loose-growing showy shrubs, belonging to the Potato 
family (Solanaceae). One or two may be grown out-of-doors against 
walls or treUises in Cornwall, but, as a rule, they are better adapted 
for the greenhouse. They are natives of Mexico, Guatemala, Peru, 
Brazil, and other countries. Though naturally bushes, their long 
slender branches are well adapted for clothing greenhouse pillars 
and walls, hence their frequent use for these purposes. Few green- 
house plants have a longer flowering period or so well repay the care 
expended upon them. They are easily increased by cuttings in 
spring, and thrive in a compost of 4 parts loam, i part leaf-mould, 
I part well-decayed manure, and i part sand. AH secondary 
branches should be pruned to within a bud or two of the base in 
spring, the exact time for pruning being determined by the condition 
of the flowers. Specimens planted in borders are rarely without 
flowers from July to Christmas or after. Good kinds are : aurantiacum, 
from Guatemala, with orange-coloured flowers ; elegans, a native of 
Mexico, with bright red flowers, sometimes grown out-of-doors against 
sunny walls ; fascicularis, a red-flowered, vigorous kind from Mexico ; 
Newellii, a very free-flowering kind with scarlet flowers, often blossoms 
during spring, and pruning is deferred until after the flowers fade. 

Chamaepeuce {Fish Bone Thistle). — This genus consists of two 
distinct species, both of which are extensively used as " dot " plants 
in formal beds during the summer months. They belong to the Daisy 
family (Compositae). Chamaepeuce Cassabonae has long spreading 
dark green leaves, covered with white spines ; in Diacantha the 
leaves are white, margined with green. Both are biennials, and should 
be sown in a frame in April in order to yield plants for effective bed- 
ding the following year. They are natives of the Mediterranean region. 




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CHEIRANTHUS 103 

Cheiranthus {Wallflower). — A small group or genus (Natural 
Order Cruciferac), yet it contains one of the most popular of all 
garden flowers, Cheiranthus Cheiri, the Wallflower. Of late years 
some improved varieties have been introduced by florists, many 
seedsmen having their own special strains, which, as a rule, can be 
depended upon to come true from seed. Wallflowers can be readily 
raised from cuttings. They may remain in one spot undisturbed year 
after year and will flower freely. The general practice, however, is to 
treat them as biennials ; that is to say, to raise them from seed one 
year to flower the following spring. The seed may be sown in the 
open border in April or May, the young plants being pricked off into 
prepared beds as soon as they are large enough to handle. Space 
should be allowed for full development, so that the seedlings may form 
well-rooted bushy plants ready to be put in their permanent quarters 
in October. Before planting out the seedlings for the summer it is 
wise to shorten the principal root. One purpose for which Wallflowers 
are seldom used, yet well adapted, is for window-boxes ; when in 
bloom the delicious perfume pervades the room when the windows 
are opened. The flowers of the different sorts vary from pale yellow, 
almost ivory-white, to an intense dark crimson and deep purple. 
The intermediate shades include yellow, orange, salmon, and various 
tints of red and scarlet. Other kinds are Allionii, orange ; alpinus, 
pale yellow ; and Marshallii, deep orange, all being suitable for a 
sunny spot and light soil in the rock garden. The Common Wall- 
flower is splendid for sowing in a dry wall. 

Chelidonium majus (Celandine). — A pretty British plant, be- 
longing to the Poppy family (Papaveraceae), more fitted for the wild 
garden than for associating with choice kinds. It grows about 2 feet 
high, and bears a loose umbel of small Poppy-like flowers in spring 
and early summer ; the soft green divided leaves are also attractive. 
The Celandine grows far more freely in fairly damp, partially shaded 
spots than where fully exposed to sun and air. 

Chelone. — A small group of plants native of North America, and 
nearly related to the Pentstemon (Natural Order Scrophulariaceae). 
Many of those formerly regarded as Chelone are now included in 
Pentstemon. They grow about 2 feet in height and flower throughout 
the summer. Chelone glabra has purplish flowers ; Lyoni, rosy-pink ; 
nemorosa, rosy-purple ; obliqua, violet-purple ; and obliqua alba, 
white. They are quite hardy, will thrive in ordinary garden soil, 
and can be readily increased by division in autumn. 

Chicory.— (S^g Cichorium.) 

Chimney Bell Flower. — {See Campanula pyramidalis.) 



104 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Chimonanthus fragrans {Winter Sweet). — This is the only species, 
and belongs to the Natural Order Calycanthaceae. It is a hardy shrub, 
native of China and Japan, and succeeds quite well in a sunny position 
in the shrubbery in the vicinity of London, though in many gardens 
it is used as a wall shrub. It blossoms in mid-winter, the flowers 
being very fragrant, and having cream-coloured petals and reddish- 
brown calyx lobes. There is a less hardy variety, grandiflora, which 
bears larger golden flowers ; this must be given a position against 
a south or west wall. When grown in the open the typical kind 
attains a height of 4 or 5 feet if planted in warm, loamy soil contain- 
ing a little leaf-mould or peat. The type is increased by seeds and 
the variety by grafting. Bushes need no pruning when growing in 
the open, but the secondary branches of those against walls must 
be cut back after the flowers fade. The flowers are borne from the 
leaf axils of the previous year's shoots. 

China Aster. — {See Callistephus.) 

Chionanthus {Fringe Flower). — This is a showy class of hardy 
shrubs or small trees (Natural Order Oleaceae). Two species are in 
cultivation, retusus from China and Japan, and virginica from the 
Southern United States. Both are of vigorous growth, thriving in 
good but moist, loamy soil, rich in humus. They form bushes up 
to 8 or 10 feet high here, but grow much taller in their native coun- 
tries. The lance-shaped or ovate leaves are often 4 or 5 inches long, 
and from the axils the showy white fringe-like flowers appear during 
early summer. Propagation is by seeds, and regular pruning is 
unnecessary. Chionanthus virginica, the Snowflower or Fringe Tree, 
is the more beautiful of the two, its inflorescences being finer than 
those of the other. 

Chionodoxa {Glory of the Snow). — Charming little early flowering 
bulbs from Asia Minor, that serve to render our gardens gay before 
the dark days of winter have fully passed. They belong to the Lily 
family (Liliaceae), may be grouped freely in the garden or woodland, 
as they readily reproduce themselves from seed, and soon cover a 
considerable space of ground. On the exposed portions of the rock- 
work, colonies of Chionodoxas are very effective. In little borders 
near the house they are also much appreciated. The bulbs should 
be planted in August or September ; if kept out of the soil for long 
they deteriorate. The soil most suitable for them is well-drained 
sandy loam ; the bulbs are planted from 2 to 3 inches deep. The 
oldest and best-known species is Luciliae, with beautiful blue white- 
centred flowers. Other distinct forms which are regarded by botanists 
only as varieties of Luciliae are Allcni or gigantea, with much larger 



CHOISYA TERNATA 105 

blossoms but fewer on a stem ; Sardensis, with smaller deeper- 
coloured flowers ; and Tmoli, the last to bloom, similar to Luciliae 
but of deeper colour. The Chionodoxas can be recommended for the 
out-of-door garden, as good flowering bulbs can be purchased at a 
cheap rate. There is a very pretty hybrid between Chionodoxa 
Luciliae and Scilla bifolia, known as Chionoscilla Allenii. Though 
somewhat variable, it is in general appearance about midway between 
its parents and needs the same treatment. 

Choisya ternata (Mexican Orange Flower). — This shrub belongs 
to the Natural Order Rutaceae, which includes the Orange as one 
of its members. It is a native of Mexico, and hardy in the Midlands, 
South of England, and other places where similar climatic conditions 
prevail. Elsewhere it may be planted against a wall or grown in a 
cold greenhouse. Plants in the open may be from 3 to 10 feet high ; 
they gi"ow into shapely bushes well clothed with branches, and need 
no other attention from the pruner than the checking of vigorous 
branches during the first two or three years, and, in later life, cutting 
back when outgrowing their positions. Cuttings inserted in sandy 
soil under glass root readily during summer, and loamy soil for general 
planting is suitable. The three-parted evergreen leaves are of a bright 
glossy green, and form a good setting for the fragrant white flowers 
in May. 

Christmas Rose. — {See Helleborus nicer.) 

Chrysanthemum.— By some botanical authorities the Matri- 
caria and Pyrethrum are now included in the genus Chrysanthemum, 
but it will be more convenient to refer to them under their respective 
names. They belong to the Daisy family (Compositae). Of Chrys- 
anthemums proper the list of true species is not a long one, but the 
garden varieties are practically endless. The most valuable kinds 
can be divided into four groups, namely, the annuals, which are such 
a dehghtful ornament of the garden during the summer months ; 
next, the Ox-eye section, of which Chrysanthemum maximum and 
its several varieties are among the best. The third group consists of 
the shrubby kinds, which originated from Chrysanthemum frutescens, 
and now, under the collective title of Marguerites, are much used 
for summer bedding, window-boxes, and similar purposes. The fourth, 
to mention, but by far the largest section, consists of florists' varieties. 
Included under this heading are those grown in pots and brought 
into the greenhouse in autumn ; they include the Japanese, Chinese, 
Incurved, Anemone flowered, Pompon, and others. Many of them 
are unsuitable for out-of-door cultivation, but of late years a good 
deal of attention has been directed towards the raising of early flower- 



io6 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

ing varieties, and the result has been so far successful that whereas 
the early flowered kinds of former days consisted of only a few pompons 
there are now numerous varieties of the Japanese section suitable 
for the outdoor garden, combining as they do early flowering with 
sturdy habit and decided colours. 

Early Outdoor Chrysanthemums. — Most of these early kinds are 
very prolific in suckers (shoots from the base), hence in most cases 
all that is necessary is to divide them just as they start into growth 
in spring. They are, moreover, as readily raised from cuttings as the 
ordinary florists' Chrysanthemums, therefore they can be increased 
to practically any extent, as rooted cuttings planted out in April 
will flower well. The ground should be well dug and moderately 
manured, taking care afterwards that the plants do not suffer from 
want of water, while the taJler kinds must also be supported by sticks 
before they fall about. After flowering the plants may, if desired, 
be left in the beds or border throughout the winter and protected 
with a few leaves or some other suitable material in the colder parts 
of the country. To increase a variety to as great an extent as possible, 
lift the roots from the open ground as soon as the flowering season 
is over and plant them in a frame. With this amount of protection 
young shoots will push up freely, and when about 2 to 3 inches high 
may be taken off and inserted as cuttings. They can be put into pots 
or boxes of sandy soil, and if kept in a closed frame for a little while 
will soon form roots. 

These early flowering Chrysanthemums may also be treated solely 
as hardy herbaceous plants in the open border ; that is, allowed to 
pass the winter without any protection. During sharp frost a few 
kinds may perish ; but most of them will form good clumps the second 
year. They should not remain undisturbed more than two seasons, 
or the plants get weak ; in fact, many gardeners grow them fresh 
from cuttings each year. 

A good selection of outdoor Chrysanthemums includes, of large 
flowered kinds : Ada, salmon-pink, gold tips ; Anita, pink ; Border 
Beauty, fiery orange ; Carrie, golden-yellow ; Cranford White, white ; 
Crimson Marie Masse, crimson ; Diana, bronze-orange ; Elstob 
Yellow, rich yellow ; Emily, pure white ; F^e Parisienne, rosy-mauve ; 
Glory of Merstham, soft pink ; Goacher's Crimson, rich crimson ; 
Goacher's Pink, bright pink ; Harrie, bronzy-orange ; Harvest Home, 
red, gold tips ; Holmes' White, white ; Horace Martin, golden-yellow ; 
J. Bannister, red and yellow ; Le Neva, purest white ; Leslie, butter- 
cup yellow ; Madame Desgranges, white ; Madame Marie Masse, 
lilac-mauve ; Minnie Carpenter, rich terra-cotta ; Mrs. A. Thomson, 




THE HARDIEST ROCK ROSE (CISTUS LADANIFERUS) 



CHRYSANTHEMUM 107 

richest yellow ; Nellie Brown, reddish-orange ; Nina Blick, brilliant 
red and orange ; Norbet Purvis, golden-salmon ; Queen of Earlies, 
pure white ; Rabbie Burns, salmon-pink ; Rio des Jaunes, yellow ; 
Roi des Precoces, crimson and gold ; Ryecroft Beauty, pink ; Rye- 
croft Glory, bronzy-yellow ; Tapis de Neige, pure white ; Well's 
Crimson, crimson with golden reverse ; and Well's Primrose, pale 
yellow. 

Of early flowering Pompons good sorts are : Crimson Precocite, 
reddish-crimson ; Flora, golden-yellow ; Madame E. Lefort, bronzy- 
yellow ; Orange Pet, orange, shaded terra-cotta ; Precocity, bright 
yellow ; St. Croutts, pink, and White Lady, white. 

Early flowering Singles comprise : Ada Nice, yellow ; Blush Star, 
blush ; Brazier's Beauty, blush ; Canada, salmon ; Dr. Ingram, terra- 
cotta ; Dazzler, crimson ; Dorothy, purplish-rose ; Early Rose, pink ; 
Eric, bronze ; Holmthorpe, terra-cotta ; John Woolman, pink ; Joan 
Carter, yellow ; Joe, crimson amaranth ; Marion Bannister, white ; 
Merstham Beauty, rosy-pink, white zone ; Merstham Glory, crimson ; 
White City, white ; Ruby, ruby-red ; and W. A. Cull, brilliant red. 

Early flowering Chrysanthemums are of great value for cutting, 
for the blooms remain fresh a long time in water. 

Annual Chrysanthetmtms. — These are the product of the crossing 
and intercrossing of three distinct species, namely, coronarium, cari- 
natum, and segetum. The influence of coronarium is largely shown 
in the beautifully marked flowers of some of them, while the shorter 
kinds owe their dwarf stature largely to the influence of the other 
two species. The Chrysanthemums of this section must certainly 
be regarded as among the most beautiful annuals for garden decora- 
tion ; they continue to bloom for weeks if the old flowers are cut 
off as they fade. The long firm stems of the taller-growing sorts 
render them admirable for cutting, as they can be arranged with graceful 
effect. Like most annuals, these Chrysanthemums need deeply dug 
soil, as they flower during the summer months when periods of drought 
may be expected, and consequently on shallow soils they are likely 
to suffer. Seed may be sown in autumn or under glass in the spring 
for early flowering, while if sown in the open ground in April the 
plants will flower freely in summer. Overcrowding must be guarded 
against when the seed is sown, as the stronger kinds are seen at their 
best when the plants are about i8 inches apart. The dwarfer sorts 
need less space. The varieties of Annual Chrysanthemums are numer- 
ous, and seed from reliable sources may be depended upon to come 
true. The following are all good : Burridgeanum, pure white with 
crimson ring ; atrococcineum, deep scarlet ; carinatum, white and 



108 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

crimson ; Evening Star, golden-yellow ; Lord Beaconsfield, crimson 
and gold ; Morning Star, sulphur, dark centre ; The Sultan, crimson- 
maroon ; venustum, crimson and white ; and W. E. Gladstone, 
crimson. Beside these there are some double flowered varieties, of 
which the best are the Double White and the Double Golden ; these 
are shorter than the preceding. Seedlings of annual Chrysanthemums, 
the product of seed sown in spring, may, if desired, be grown in pots, 
under which conditions they thrive well. 

Marguerites. — The different Marguerites, or shrubby Chrysanthe- 
mums, have originated from Chrysanthemum frutescens, native of 
the Canary Islands. They need protection from frost during winter, 
but are largely used for the embellishment of the outdoor garden in 
summer ; in fact, they must now be looked upon as one of the most 
popular of bedding plants. In conjunction with the scarlet Pelar- 
gonium and the blue Lobelia, they supply the popular colour arrange- 
ment of red, white and blue. When allowed enough space the Mar- 
guerites form quite large bushes which flower profusely. If grown 
in large pots or tubs they form handsome plants for terraces, balconies, 
or similar places ; in window boxes, too, they will grow and flower 
well. When using them for bedding out in the summer, allowance 
must be made for their rapid increase in size. Propagation is effected 
by means of cuttings, taken either late in summer or in spring. Cut- 
tings from plants that have been bedded out are inserted towards the 
end of August in well-drained pots or boxes of sandy soil. Placed 
in an ordinary garden frame kept closed and shaded, they will be 
well rooted in about a month. As soon as this happens plenty of 
air must be given in order to keep the plants as hardy as possible. 
Throughout winter they need to be kept safe from frost, while the 
soil should not be too damp. When the cuttings are rooted the 
question whether they shall be then potted off singly will depend to 
a great extent upon the space available. If there is ample room they 
will, of course, make more headway in single pots than if they are 
kept until spring in the original boxes or pots. In the latter case 
they must be potted singly as early in spring as possible. In taking 
the cuttings, shoots of medium vigour, about 3 inches long, rather 
than very strong or weak ones, should be chosen. All flowers and 
buds must be cut off. 

In the spring the growing point of the shoot should be pinched 
out in order to induce the formation of side shoots, for it is as bushy 
little specimens that Marguerites are most effective. If stock is hmited 
the best of the old plants may be carefully lifted in autumn and potted, 
the more vigorous stems and roots being shortened. For this purpose 



CHRYSANTHEMUM loo 

the pots should not be too large, as if small ones are used it admits 
of the plants being repotted in spring before bedding out. In growing 
Marguerites a sharp look-out must be kept for a very troublesome 
pest, namely, the leaf-mining maggot. This burrows through the leaf 
substance and leaves disfiguring white marks ; it may be killed by a 
squeeze between finger and thumb directly it is noticed. Syringing 
the leaves with tar water tends to prevent its appearance, while if 
the plants are under glass fumigating with Auto Shreds is advised. 
Big bushes in rather small pots should have frequent doses of liquid 
manure, or one of the many plant stimulants now much used. 

There are several varieties of Marguerite, some with single and 
others with double or semi-double flowers. There have been several 
semi-double kinds, but they are all now superseded by the variety 
Mrs. F. Sander, which has a raised Anemone-like centre. 

Ox-eye Daisies. — Of the Ox-eye section of Chrysanthemums by 
far the finest is maximum, a native of Spain and Portugal. The 
typical kind may be compared with our native Ox-eye (Chrysan- 
themum Leucanthemum), but is altogether a more vigorous plant, 
while the flowers are much larger. There are several varieties of 
Chr37santhemum maximum in cultivation ; the blossoms of some are 
exceedingly large, sometimes 6 inches in diameter on vigorous plants. 
In height they vary from 2 to 3 feet. The best are : Duchess of 
Abercorn, dwarf, with the tips of the florets serrated ; King Edward 
VII., the largest of all, and one of the most vigorous, reaching fully 
3 feet in height ; Mrs. Charles Lowthian Bell, a fine large bloom ; 
Progress, the dwarfest of all with semi-double flowers ; Rev. H. 
Saunders, of strong growth, with extra broad florets to the large 
flowers ; robinsoniana, remarkable for its laciniated florets ; Triumph, 
a very fine border kind of vigorous growth ; Tunstall, the florets of 
which reflex in a particularly graceful manner ; and Wynyard, of 
compact habit, with large, bold, regularly shaped blossoms. These 
are among the finest of border flowers ; if the old flowers are cut 
off as they fade the season of blooming extends from early summer 
until autumn. Wlien treated liberally few plants yield so liberal a 
return in blossom. They form large clumps, and the shoots in the 
centre are apt to get starved unless the plants are divided at least 
once in three years, while some prefer to treat them in this way annually. 
On lifting them it will be found that the newer shoots which have 
formed on the outside of the clump, where they get fresh soil and 
more light and air, are the strongest, and in replanting these should 
be selected. 

The soil ought to be well dug and manured before replanting; 



no THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

The leaves of Chrysanthemum maximum are somewhat hable to be 
attacked by the leaf-mining grub referred to in the notes on the 
Marguerites. 

Other Chrysanthemums that may be especially referred to are : 
alpinum, a neat little plant about 3 inches high, with rather large 
white flowers ; argenteum, an alpine species 12 inches or so high, 
with silvery leaves and pale yellow blossoms ; Leucanthemum, 
the Ox-eye or Horse Daisy of our fields, well known everywhere ; 
Leucanthemum semi-duplex, a variety with semi-double flowers ; 
nipponicum, a shrubby species from Japan, with Marguerite-hke 
flowers in late summer and autumn, somewhat tender. The last to 
mention is a particularly valuable one, namely, Chrysanthemum 
uliginosum (Pyrethrum uhginosum), a native of Eastern Europe, and 
of bold, free growth, reaching a height of 5 or 6 feet. The large Ox- 
eye-like flowers are borne in great profusion in early autumn. This 
Chrysanthemum is well suited for planting in the back row of the 
herbaceous border. Those suited to the rock garden need gritty, 
well-drained soil and a sunny spot. 

Chrysogonum virginicum [Golden Knee). — The bright yellow 
flowers of this low-growing perennial, which belongs to the Daisy 
family (Compositae), are produced for a considerable period through- 
out the summer months. It is a desirable plant for the rock garden 
or front of the herbaceous border, and can be readily increased by 
division, carried out at any time during the dormant season. It 
thrives in ordinary soil, and is native of North America. 

Cichorium Intybus [Chicory or Succory). — This well-known 
plant, native of Europe, grown chiefly for its economic value, is really 
worthy of a place in the herbaceous border, though the flowers are 
open only in the morning. It reaches a height of 4 to 5 feet, and 
from the much-branched stems a succession of blossoms is kept up 
for some time in summer ; they are more than i inch across, and 
of clear blue colour. The Chicory, which belongs to the Daisy 
family (Compositae), can be readily increased by root cuttings, dug 
up in winter, cut into lengths of about 3 inches, and buried some 
3 inches deep in well-drained sandy soil. 

Cimicifuga [Bughane). — The Cimicifugas are an ornamental race 
of hardy herbaceous perennials, natives of North America, China, 
and Japan, and members of the Buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). 
They vary in height from 3 to 4 feet or thereabouts, and have 
long, terminal, feathery racemes of white or whitish flowers. All 
these plants can be increased by division when dormant, and thrive 
in ordinary garden soil, especially if it is somewhat moist. The best 




BORDER CHRYSANTHEMUM DIANA 



CINERARIA III 

known are : americana, which flowers in August and September ; 
cordifoHa, with heart-shaped leaves ; davurica, a distinct species 
from China, the racemes being of a particularly " feathery " char- 
acter ; foetida (simplex^, the only European kind ; japonica, remark- 
able for its handsome lobed leaves, black shining stems, and white 
flowers ; racemosa, with much-divided leaves and twisted flower 
racemes in August. Those of which the flowering season is not 
named bloom in July. 

Cineraria. — By botanists Cineraria, which belongs to the Daisy 
family (Compositae), is now merged into that of Senecio, but as 
Cinerarias these plants are universally grown. With one excep- 
tion they are used only for greenhouse decoration : maritima is 
largely employed for bedding out during the summer months. For 
this purpose seed is sown in early spring, in pans or boxes of light 
sandy soil, the seedlings being pricked off when large enough to handle. 
If potted singly when sufliciently advanced, they will attain an effec- 
tive size by bedding-out time. The attractive feature of maritima 
is the silvery tint of the prettily divided leaves, owing to which it 
is much used as a foil to brilliantly coloured flowers. 

Cinquefoil. — (See PoTENTlLLA.) 

Cistus (Rock Rose). — Very free-flowering shrubs, belonging to 
the Natural Order Cistaceae, suitable for planting in dry soil in sunny 
positions. The majority are natives of the various parts of the Medi- 
terranean region, some coming from rather warm countries. All are 
not hardy, and those unfitted for out-of-doors are of little use for 
the greenhouse. As a rule, they are of rapid growth, but it is a mis- 
take to plant them in rich soil in order to induce them to grow quickly. 
It is preferable to try and keep them short- jointed and sturdy, for 
such plants not only withstand cold weather better, but flower more 
profusely. They are increased by seeds sown in spring or by cuttings 
inserted in pots of sandy soil in a closed frame during summer. In 
either case it is necessary to keep the young plants in pots until they 
can be placed in permanent positions, for they transplant very badly 
from borders. Cistuses are essentially sun-loving plants, therefore 
choose an open place either on a bank or about the rockery for prefer- 
ence. Excellent results are sometimes obtained by planting them 
in large masses on rocky hillsides. Pruning is confined to stopping 
the shoots of young plants and removing the old flower-heads from 
older specimens. The chief kinds are : albidus, 2 to 3 feet, flowers, 
rosy-lilac, leaves whitish ; corbariensis, i to 2 feet, white ; crispus, 3 
to 4 feet, grey leaves, rose ; cyprius, 2 to 4 feet, white with red blotch, 
one of the best ; florentinus, 2 feet, white ; ladaniferus, 3 to 4 feet, 



112 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

white with red blotch ; laurifoHus, 4 to 6 feet, white, the hardiest of 
all ; Loretii, 4 feet, white with dark blotches ; Monspehensis, 2 feet, 
white ; purpureus, 3 feet, purple ; salvifolius, 3 feet, red ; villosus, 
3 feet, rose. All bloom in summer. 

Cladrastis {Yellow Wood). — Two hardy species of this group, 
which belongs to the Pea family (Leguminosae), are in cultivation, 
Amurensis from Amurland, and tinctoria from the United States ; 
there is also a variety of the former species called Buergeri. The 
Asiatic kind forms a bush or low tree of little decorative worth, but 
the other is a much larger tree, sometimes attaining a height of 30 
or 40 feet with a considerable spread, and more ornamental by reason 
of its handsome pinnate leaves and long, Laburnum-hke inflorescences 
of white flowers in July. It requires plenty of sun and loamy soil. 
Propagation is by seeds, and pruning is unnecessary except for training 
purposes, when the trees are young. The timber is peculiar by 
reason of its deep yellow colour from which the common name of Yellow 
Wood is derived. It is used as a dye. Cladrastis Amurensis is now 
usually called Maackia Amurensis. 

Clarkia. — Of late years the different Clarkias, which belong to 
the Evening Primrose family (Onagraceae) and are natives of Western 
North America, have become one of the most popular annual flowers, 
a fact that need occasion no surprise, as the improved forms are showy 
and distinct from other plants of annual duration. There are three 
species in cultivation, namely, elegans, pulchella, and rhomboidea. 
It is from the two first-named that the garden varieties of the present 
day have sprung, as rhomboidea with small purple blossoms is less 
ornamental. When in good soil and with space allowed for their 
development, Clarkias will reach a height of 2^ to 3 feet, and flower 
profusely over a long period. They are hardy annuals ; that is to 
say, seed may be sown out-of-doors in autumn to flower early the 
following season, and in spring to produce summer bloom. In this 
way a succession may be maintained, if care is taken to cut off the 
old flowers as they fade. Clarkias produce seed very freely, and 
seeding puts a stop to flowering. Apart from their beauty in the 
open ground, the Clarkias are also of great value for cutting, the colours 
of some of them look particularly well under artificial light. Some 
of the improved varieties have single and others double blossoms. 
Of the latter the leading sorts are : Brilliant Princess, glowing rose ; 
Firefly, scarlet-crimson ; Purple King, purple ; Salmon Queen, bright 
sahnon ; Scarlet King, scarlet, and White Prince, pure white. The 
single varieties, though very showy, are not so numerous as the double 
ones. When sowing Clarkias, do not allow them to be crowded. 



CLAYTONIA 113 

Claytonia {Spring Beauty). — ^The Claytonias are pretty spring- 
flowering plants chiefly with tuberous roots, and belong to the Natural 
Order Portulaceae. They are natives of the northern regions of 
both hemispheres, thrive best in a moist soil, and can be readily 
increased by means of seeds. The chief species are caroliniana, 
some 9 inches high, that bears a profusion of bright rose-coloured 
blossoms from April to June ; a good deal similar is sibirica, while 
virginica, rather shorter, has pure white flowers. Claytonias are 
suitable for the moist part of the rockery. Particular interest is 
attached to an annual species, Claytonia perfoliata, not from any 
beauty it possesses, but from the fact that, though a native of North 
America, it some years ago overran the market gardens in the neigh- 
bourhood of London as a weed. 

Clematis. — This group consists of shrubby and herbaceous 
climbers and sub-shrubby and ordinary herbaceous plants, belonging 
to the Buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). The majority are of a 
showy character and invaluable for garden adornment, whilst others 
are useful additions to the wild garden. One species, Vitalba, the 
Traveller's Joy or Old Man's Beard, is a native of the British Isles, 
and is found in copses and hedgerows in many directions. The other 
kinds have a wide distribution, some being found in Europe, others 
in Asia, America, New Zealand, Australia, and Africa. With a few 
exceptions, the hardier kinds are the more ornamental, and those 
requiring a warm greenhouse are given little attention. The soil 
most suitable for Clematises is deep, rich loam, which contains lime. 
Propagation is effected in various ways. Thus the species may be 
raised from seeds or cuttings, and the garden varieties from cuttings, 
layers, or grafts. The grafts are usually placed upon sections of 
root of Clematis Vitalba, but grafting should only be practised when 
other methods fail. 

Pruning requires a considerable amount of care, for some kinds 
bloom on shoots of the previous year, and others on the current year's 
growths. Thus the garden varieties are included in five distinct 
groups under the following headings : Florida, Patens, Lanuginosa, 
Jackmani, and Viticella. In the cases of the two first-named, the 
flowers are borne from the previous year's shoots, and any necessary 
pruning — which is usually very little — must be reserved until after 
the flowers are over in June. The others, however, blossom on the 
current year's stems, and require cutting back severely in February. 
If not cut back, these kinds become very bare about the base, and 
the upper parts appear as a mass of tangled shoots. The true species, 
or wild types, require similar treatment ; those like montana and alpina, 
I 



114 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

which bloom from old stems, must not be pruned until after the 
flowers have fallen, whereas autumn or late summer flowering kinds, 
such as Flammula and orientalis, may be pruned in spring. The 
herbaceous Clematises must be cut over in the ordinary way and the 
clumps divided in autumn when necessary. An evergreen species, 
from New Zealand, indivisa, is too tender for outdoor cultivation 
except in the warmer counties, where its plentiful white star-like 
flowers make a wonderful display, but it may be grown m a cool and 
airy greenhouse with considerable success, either on rafters or pillars 
or in pots, on trellises or trained round stakes. 

The following is a selection of garden varieties. All these should 
have their roots and the lower parts of their stems shielded from 
bright sun : 

Florida Group. — Belle of Woking, double, silver-grey ; Countess 
of Lovelace, double, bluish-lilac ; Duchess of Edinburgh, double, 
white ; John Gould Veitch, lavender ; Venus Victrix, lavender. 

Patens Group. — Albert Victor, lavender ; Fair Rosamond, white ; 
Lady Londesborough, silver-grey ; Marcel Moser, white ; Nellie Moser, 
blush white with red bars ; The Queen, mauve. 

Lanuginosa Group. — ^Anderson Henryi, creamy-white ; Beauty of 
Worcester, violet ; Duchess of Teck, white ; Fairy Queen, flesh ; 
Empress Eugdnie, white ; Gloire de St. Julien, white ; La France, 
violet-purple ; Sensation, mauve. 

Jackmani Group. — Alexandra, violet ; Earl of Beaconsfield, pur- 
ple ; Jackmani alba, white ; rubra, red ; Snow White, white ; supcrba, 
purple ; Madame Baron- Veillard, rose ; Madame Edouard Andre, 
red ; Star of India, purple with reddish bars. 

Viticella Group. — Ascotensis, blue ; Lady Bovill, blue ; Madame 
Grange, crimson-violet ; Madame Thibaut, lilac ; Thomas Moore, 
violet ; Viticel'a alba, white ; grandiflora, red. 

The following are the chief species : alpina, 8 to 12 feet, mauve, 
blue, white, or red, April ; campaniflora, at least 15 feet, white and 
mauve, summer ; calycina, evergreen, cream or white, winter ; Flam- 
mula, 15 to 18 feet, white, fragrant, August, var. rubro-marginata, 
has red margins to the flowers ; heracleaefolia, a sub-shrubby kind 
from China, bearing large quantities of tubular blue flowers in July 
and August — improved varieties are Davidiana and Lavallei ; in- 
divisa, an evergreen, tender kind from New Zealand, bearing white 
flowers in spring ; montana, one of the best of the Chinese kinds, 
grows quite 20 feet high, and bears white flowers freely in May — the 
var. rubens has red flowers. Orientalis is an Oriental kind, bearing 
small yellow flowers during late summer— the var. tangutica is better 





THE MOUNTAIN CLEMATIS 
(CLEMATIS MONTANA) 



PAMPAS GRASS (CORTADERIA 
ARGENTEA) 





A HARDY CYCLAMEN (CYCLAMEN 
REPANDUM) 



CLEMATIS NELLIE MOSER ON 
WALL TRELLIS 



CLERODENDRON 



115 




than the type ; Pitcheri 
is an ornamental sum- 
mer - flowering species 
from Colorado. 
Amongst the herbace- 
ous kinds, recta, with 
white flowers ; coccinea, 
with scarlet blooms ; 
and integrifolia, with 
purple blossoms, should 
be grown. 

Clerodendron. — 
This group (Natural 
Order Verbenaceae ) con- 
tains numerous tropical, 
and a few temperate, 
shrubs. The hardier 
kinds are natives of 
China and Japan, whilst 
the others are found 
in the West Indies, clematis heracleaekolia 

India, Africa, the Ma- 
laya, Australia, and other countries. The hardy Clerodendrons re- 
quire sunny positions, and are better adapted to the southern than 
to the northern counties. They thrive in light, well-drained loam, 
and are increased by root cuttings placed in sandy soil under glass 
in spring. Sections of root as thick as a lead-pencil may be cut in 
lengths of 4 inches for the purpose. Clerodendron foetidum may 
be cut down to the ground each year ; in other cases pruning is 
confined to the removal of dead wood. The best hardy kinds are : 
foetidum, 3 to 4 feet, China, flowers red, August ; Fargesii, 6 to 10 
feet, China, flowers white, fragrant, August ; trichotomum, 10 to 15 
feet, China and Japan, flowers white, fragrant, August and September. 

There are numerous tender kinds which require a warm green- 
house temperature. Some are climbers, others bushes. 

Clethra. — .The Clethras, which belong to the Heather family 
(Ericaceae), comprise several deciduous shrubs from North America, 
one from China and Japan, and an evergreen kind from Madeira. The 
American kinds, acuminata and alnifoha, are the hardiest. They 
succeed in moist, peaty soil, form bushes 2 to 4 feet high, and bear 
a profusion of clusters of fragrant white flowers during August. There 
are several varieties of alnifoha, those called Michauxii and paniculata 



ii6 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

being especiaJly worthy of note. The Asiatic kind, canesccns, is an 
upright bush, 4 feet high, which bears fragrant white flowers in 
autumn. It is not very hardy when young. All the pruning required 
is the removal of the flower-heads. Clethra arborea from Madeira is 
a very different plant. Of vigorous habit, it forms a shapely bush, 
12 to 15 feet high with handsome dark evergreen leaves, and bears 
large clusters of white bell-shaped flowers, from which the common 
name of Lily of the Valley Tree has arisen. Except in the warmer 
counties, it roust be grown in a cool greenhouse. Equal parts of loam 
and peat form a suitable compost ; prune after flowering when any 
shaping is required, otherwise simply remove the flower-heads. 

Climbing Fumitory. — (See Adlumia.) 

Clinton la. — A small genus of plants belonging to the Lily family 
(Liliaceae), and natives chiefly of North America. They are but 
rarely met with in gardens, though they are fully entitled to more 
attention than is usually bestowed upon them. For their successful 
treatment they need a moist, peaty soil in a partially-shaded spot, 
and can be increased by division in spring. The species are andrew- 
siana, which reaches a height of 2 feet and bears drooping, bell-shaped, 
rose-coloured blossoms in umbels ; this flowers in May and June, so, 
too, does borealis, but this only reaches a height of about 6 inches, 
and the flowers are yellow. In Clintonia umbellata, which is also 
only some 6 inches high, the blossoms are whitish. A distinct feature 
of uniflora is that the stem is, as a rule, one-flowered, though occa- 
sionally two (white) blooms are produced. 

Cnicus (Horse Thistle). — An extensive group (Natural Order 
Compositae), many of the kinds being classed by different authorities 
under various names. The majority of them are but weeds. Perhaps 
the best of all — and that is only fit for the wild garden — is heterophyllus, 
that reaches a height of 4 to 6 feet, and bears large heads of purple 
flowers. It will grow in almost any soil. 

Cobaea scandens. — A rapid-growing climbing plant, native of 
Mexico, and belonging to the same Natural Order as Jacob's Ladder 
(Polemoniaceae). For its full development, a large greenhouse or 
conservatory is necessary. It is, however, often used for beds in the 
outdoor garden in summer, for if the seed is sown in warmth early in 
the spring the young plants will grow freely, and in late May can 
be safely planted out. If put into some fairly light, moderately rich 
soil, they will make rapid headway and cover a considerable space 
of trellis or other support by the latter part of the summer. At 
that time the large purple bell-shaped flowers open, and a succession 
is kept up until frost puts in an appearance. The Cobaea has woody 



CODONOPSIS 117 

stems, and should it survive the winter, vi'hich is not hkely except in 
especially favoured spots, it will grow freely the next year. 

Cockscomb. — {See Celosia cristata.) 

Codonopsis. — Herbaceous perennials, that bear bell-shaped blos- 
soms on a climbing stem during summer. They belong to the Bell- 
flower family (Campanulaceae), and are natives of the Himalaya, 
China, and Japan. The chief species are : clematidea, which reaches 
a height of 2 feet, and bears whitish flowers marked with purple ; 
lanceolata, with tuberous root, flowers pale lilac without and violet 
within ; ovata, soft grey-blue ; and rotundifolia, with purple flowers 
veined with yellow. They thrive best in a fairly cool, moist, though 
well-drained spot in ordinary soil, and are an interesting and orna- 
mental class of plants. 

Coix lachryma {Job's Tears). — An ornamental Grass (Natural 
Order Gramineae), native of tropical Asia, and suitable only for 
planting out-of-doors for the summer months. The seeds, which are 
very hard, and about the size of a Cherry-stone, are sown in warmth 
in February, and the young plants put out in good soil in a sunny 
spot, late in May or early June. This Grass will then form a dense 
tuft, 3 feet or more in height, and bear half-drooping clusters of its 
pretty seeds, to which the popular name of Job's Tears is appHed. 
The seeds are of bluish-white tint, and have a polished surface like 
that of porcelain, and are much used for beads, especially in the 
making of rosaries, etc. As they are so hard, it is a good plan to soak 
them in warm water for twenty-four hours before sowing. 

Colchicum {Meadow Saffron). — The different species of Colchicum 
are of wide geographical distribution in Asia and Europe. They belong 
to the Lily family (Liliaceae). A second popular name. Autumn 
Crocus, has been given them, firstly owing to their general resemblance 
to a Crocus, and secondly from the fact that most of them flower 
in autumn. Colchicums need a sandy, loamy soil, and the bulbs 
are planted in July and August. Though the autumn Colchicums pro- 
duce their flowers at that season, the leaves do not appear until spring ; 
for this reason the bulbs are often planted in grass, which serves to 
protect them from rough winds and heavy rains during their flowering 
period and provide a setting for the flowers. They may also be 
planted in the front of a border, disposed in irregular-shaped clumps, 
preferably among some tufted evergreens. In planting Colchicum 
the top of the bulb or corm, as it is more correctly termed, should be 
about 3 inches below the surface of the soil. There are many species 
and varieties, some of which closely resemble each other. A selection 
of the best includes ; autumnale, purple ; autumnale album, white ; 



ii8 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 



autumnale album plenum, double white ; autumnale roseum plenum, 
double rose; Bornmulleri, lilac, white centre; byzantinum. soft 
mauve, feathered with white ; giganteum, dark lilac ; Parkinsonii, 
rose-purple and white, chequered in a strange manner ; speciosum, 
the largest of all, rose-purple ; speciosum album, pure white ; and 
variegatum, chequered after the manner of Parkinsonii. Quite a 

miniature kind is 
crociflorum, which 
does not bloom 
until spring ; the 
flowers are white, 
lined with violet. 

Colletia cru. 
ciata is an extra- 
ordinary shrub 
belonging to the 
Natural Order 
Rhamnaceae. It 
is a native of Uru- 
guay, and is pecu- 
liar by reason of 
its branches being 
armed with fero- 
cious spines among 
which the small 
leaves are not very 
evident. The spines 
differ widely on 
different plants, 
sometimes being long and moderately slender, and at others being 
considerably thickened near the base, forming almost a part of the 
branch system. The small red and brown flowers are borne freely in 
April, after the bushes have attained full size. Plant in loamy 
soil in the southern counties. No pruning is required. 

Collinsia. — Pretty free-flowering hardy annuals, native princi- 
pally of California, and belonging to the Snapdragon family (Scrophu- 
lariaceae). They thrive in any good garden soil. The seed may be 
sown out-of-doors either in autumn for spring bloom, or in spring 
for summer flowers. Most of them grow about 12 inches high, and 
the flowers are borne in whorls along the greater part of the shoots. 
The principal species are bartisaefolia, purple and white ; bicolor, 
white, rosy-purple lip ; bicolor candidissima, white ; corymbosa, white 




MEADOW SAFFRON (Colchicum autumnale album) 



COLLOMIA 119 

and blue ; grandiflora, purplish-blue ; parvifiora, blue and purple ; and 
verna, white, blue lip. The last-named should be sown in autumn, 
as it is at its best in spring. 

Collomia. — Hardy annuals belonging to the Natural Order Pole- 
moniaceae, and native chiefly of North- West America. All are quite 
hardy ; that is to say, they may be sown in autumn to stand the 
winter, and flower in spring and early summer, or in April to bloom 
later on. They grow about 18 inches high, and the flowers are dis- 
posed in dense heads. All of them do well in ordinary garden soil, 
in a sunny spot. The principal species are coccinea, deep red ; grandi- 
flora, reddish-yellow ; heterophylla, purple ; and linearis, reddish- 
brown. 

Columbine. — {See Aquilegia.) 

Colutea {Bladder Senna). — Hardy shrubs belonging to the Pea 
family (Leguminosae), natives of the Mediterranean region and Asia 
Minor. They form bushes 3 to 8 feet high, with pinnate leaves and 
golden or brownish flowers which are followed by curious, inflated, 
parchment-like pods, from which the common name of Bladder Senna 
has arisen. They are grown in ordinary garden soil, are usually 
increased by seeds, and are often allowed to grow 2 or 3 feet in height 
with several branches from the base, and are then cut back each 
year to within an inch or so of the base of the previous year's wood. 
The best flowers are produced by this method, though regular pruning 
is not absolutely necessary. The chief sorts are : arborescens, Common 
Bladder Senna, flowers golden, June ; cilicia, Asia Minor, yellow ; 
cruenta. Orient, brown or reddish-brown ; longialata, Asia Minor, 
yellow. 

Commelina. — An extensive group (Natural Order Commelinaceae) 
containing nearly a hundred kinds, most of which are tropical weeds, 
and are therefore unsuitable for outdoor cultivation in this country. 
In light, warm soils and a sunny spot, one sort, caelestis, forms a very 
pleasing feature in the outdoor garden during summer, for it blooms 
over a lengthened period. It forms a tuberous root, from which arise 
green stems to a height of 18 inches. The stems are clothed with bright 
green, oblong, lanceolate leaves, and the flowers, several of which are 
enclosed within a large shell-like bract on the points of the shoots, are 
of a delightful shade of light blue. They only last for a single day, 
but a succession is kept up for a long time. Commelinas are hardy 
only in light, warm soil, but, where there is any risk of their surviving 
the winter, the tuberous roots may be readily lifted and stored in the 
same manner as Dahlias. They are readily increased by seeds, which 
should be sown out-of-doors in a warm spot in April. So freely are 



120 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

the seeds produced, that where the conditions are favourable seedlings 
come up like weeds. The old plants that survive the winter out-of- 
doors, or are stored safe from frost and planted out in spring, are 
more effective than seedlings of the first year. 

Conandron. — This hardy plant, which belongs to the same family 
as the Gloxinia (Gesneraceae), and is native of Japan, forms a tuft 
of dark green leaves, very suggestive of those of Ramondia, and bears 
in summer, on stems about 6 inches high, pale lilac flowers with purple 
centre. It is a plant for which a suitable spot in the rock garden 
must be chosen. The best conditions are a fairly moist, yet well- 
drained, shady chink between two stones, and a soil of loam, peat, 
and sand. 

Cone Flower. — {See Rudbeckia.) 

Convallaria majalis {Lily of the Valley). — By some authorities the 
Solomon's Seal is included in the genus Convallaria, but it is now 
generally known as Polygonatum. The Lily of the Valley, which 
belongs to the Lily family (Liliaceae), and is found wild in north tem- 
perate regions, is a universal favourite ; it will flourish in practically 
every garden if some care is taken in planting. If an old-established 
bed of Lily of the Valley is examined it will be found to consist of 
a dense mat-like mass of underground stems and roots with a consider- 
able number of buds, or crowns, as they are usually termed. In 
time, when these get overcrowded, the flowers become poor, and 
then the bed should be replanted, selecting for the purpose a fresh 
spot if possible. The ground must be well dug, and a liberal amount 
of leaf-mould and decayed manure mixed in. The old clumps are 
divided up into portions each containing two or three crowns, which 
are replanted about 3 inches apart over the surface of the bed, which 
may be in a partially-shaded spot. The work of dividing and re- 
planting is done in winter, when the plants are dormant, and care 
must must be taken that they do not suffer from want of water after- 
wards. Top-dressing the bed in autumn with a mixture of loam, 
leaf-mould, and manure, the whole being passed through a ^-inch 
sieve, often improves the plants considerably, and gives them a new 
lease of life. In picking flowers the spike should be pulled out, as 
in this way a greater length of stem is obtained. There are several 
varieties of Lily of the Valley that differ in a more or less marked 
manner from the common kind. Included among them are flore 
pleno, with double flowers ; prolificans, in which the segments are 
more spreading than usual ; rosea, with blossoms of pinkish tinge, 
and variegata, with variegated leaves. Besides these we have what 
are termed Berlin crowns, so much used for forcing, the individual 



CONVOLVULUS 



121 



flowers being very widely expanded ; and Fontin's variety, of vigorous 
growth and bearing large blooms. This last-named is particularly 
effective in a bed or clump. 

Convolvulus (Bindweed). — Many of the perennial Bindweeds 
(Natural Order Convolvulaceae) are decidedly ornamental, but a 
disadvantage of some of them lies in the creeping roots, which encroach 
on neighbouring plants. Chief among them are althaeoides, a lovely 
little creeping plant with rosy-pink flowers, produced throughout the 
summer ; it is often recommended for the rock garden, but it spreads 
rapidly, and should not be put near choice plants. Convolvulus 
arvensis (Small Bindweed) is, though pretty, one of the worst weeds 
of the garden ; Cneorum, quite a httle bush, clothed with silvery 
leaves and in early summer sprinkled with pretty pink blossoms, 
is hardy only in warm districts ; it is a native of the South of Europe, 
mauritanicus is another somewhat tender kind, of creeping habit, and 
when grown in a suspended basket it is very attractive ; the flowers 
are blue, and borne from June till the autumn. In warm gardens, it 
is a desirable plant for the rockery. Rather light, sandy soil is 
suitable for the choicer kinds. 

Annual Convolvulus. — The best of these are selected forms of 
two species, namely, tricolor, more generally known as minor, 
and major, which is also known as Ipomoea purpurea. Of the 
last-named, seed may be sown out-of-doors late in April, and 
the plants so obtained will 
bloom during summer. If a 
frame or greenhouse is available 
seeds may be sown in pots 
in March, and the seedlings planted 
out in May. These flower earlier than 
when the seed is sown out-of-doors. 
This Convolvulus, which is a rapid 
climber, is admirably adapted for 
growing in boxes, for placing near the 
window or balcony, or an arch, round 
which the stems may grow. A sunny 
spot suits the plants, as they are seen 
at their best during bright sunshine. 
The flowers are of shades of blue and 
purple, while there are also rose, crim- 
son, and striped kinds. The dwarf 

Convolvulus tricolor, more generally ^^^^ ^^ ^^^ ^^^^^^ 

known as minor, also has flowers of (convaiiaria majaiis) 




122 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

similar shade of colour, though many of them have a yellow centre. 
The blossoms of Convolvulus do not last long, but a succession is 
kept up throughout the summer. A well-dug, but not rich, soil and 
a sunny spot meet their needs. Seed may be sown in autumn or 
spring, as the plants are hardy. 

Coptis. — Hardy perennials, growing from 6 to 12 inches in 
height, belonging to the Buttercup family (Ranunculaceae), and natives 
of the Northern Hemisphere. They succeed best in a moist, peaty 
soil, and are well suited for small bog gardens. The best known are 
occidentalis, with trifoliate leaves and white Ranunculus-hke flowers, 
in May and June ; orientahs, leaves pinnate, with deeply cut lobes 
and white flowers, usually borne three together on a stem ; and tri- 
folia, with trifoliate leaves and small white flowers, borne singly from 
April to July. 

Cordyiine. — Most of the CordyHnes, which belong to the Lily 
family (Liliaceae), are hothouse plants, the only one that is useful 
for outdoor planting being australis, a native of New Zealand. It 
forms an upright stem, which, in old plants, is crowned with long, 
strap-shaped, arching leaves. In the warmer parts of England and in 
Ireland this Cordyiine attains quite tree-like dimensions, while as a 
smaller plant it is commonly used in summer bedding, chiefly as a 
" dot " plant in formal flower beds ; larger specimens, in tubs or pots, 
are plunged in the turf of the lawn, especially where a sub-tropical 
effect is aimed at. When the plants need repotting, it should be done 
in spring, a suitable compost being made up of a mixture of loam, 
peat and sand. Increase is by seed, which sometimes ripens in this 
country, in addition to which considerable numbers are sent here 
from New Zealand ; it is sown as soon as possible after receipt, in 
the greenhouse. When large enough the young plants are put singly 
in small pots and repotted as becomes necessary. Cordyiine australis 
is sometimes known as Dracaena australis and Dracaena indivisa, but 
the last name is rightly applied to a totally different kind. 

Coreopsis {Tickseed).— Showy annuals and perennials, chiefly 
natives of North America, members of the Daisy family (Compositae). 
They are known also as Calliopsis. The annual kinds, which grow from 
I foot to 3 feet in height, are exceedingly beautiful. The flowers are 
on long wiry stems, and are admirable for cutting. They vary in 
colour from yellow to deep crimson or brown, and in many of them 
these colours are blended in varied and striking fashion. The annual 
kinds may be sown either in autumn or spring ; for autumn sowing out- 
of-doors light, well-drained soil must be chosen. From seed sown in 
the open ground in April the young plants make rapid headway, and 







A GOLDEN-LEAVED CYPRESS (CUPRESSUS LAWSONIANA 

LUTEA) 



CORNUS 123 

soon reach flowering size. Well-grown plants branch out freely, hence 
care must be taken that they are not overcrowded. 

Of the perennial kinds may be especially mentioned : auriculata, 
yellow with dark zone ; grandiflora, flowers 2| inches across, of bright 
golden-yellow ; Eldorado, an improved form of grandiflora ; lanceo- 
lata, rich yellow ; palmata, yellow ; rosea, about 12 inches high, pink 
flowers ; and verticillata, yellow, an upright-growing plant, of which 
the leaves, disposed in whorls, are much divided. All, except rosea, 
have rich yellow flowers, and reach a height of 18 inches to 2 feet ; 
they bloom throughout the greater part of the summer, and are of 
great service for cutting. They may be increased by division, carried 
out in the new year, before they start into growth, and will thrive 
in any good garden soil. In the herbaceous border they form a very 
attractive feature. Coreopsis grandiflora is only a biennial in many 
gardens and dies after flowering, hence it must be raised from seed 
each May to bloom the following year, 

Cork Oak. — {See Quercus.) 

Corn Flag. — {See Gladiolus.) 

Cornflower. — {See Centaurea.) 

Cornus {Dogwood). — This group (Natural Order Cornaceae) is 
made up of a considerable number of hardy shrubs, commonly called 
Dogwoods, which vary as much in appearance as in their garden 
value. They are widely distributed in Europe, North Asia, and 
North America. In some instances the decorative qualities are limited 
to showy bark, in other cases variegated foliage is the attraction, 
whilst some are grown for their beautiful flowers. Except that a 
few are tender and their planting is restricted to sunny positions in 
the warmer parts of the country, the Cornus give little trouble, for 
they thrive in any good garden soil. Propagation is by seeds, layers 
or cuttings of the ripened wood inserted out-of-doors during autumn 
or winter. Those kinds which have decorative bark are often cut 
down to the ground annually or biennially in March. By this means 
the richest colour is secured. Otherwise an occasional thinning is 
all that is necessary. 

The following form a selection of the best kinds : alba, an Asiatic 
species with bright red bark, the var. Spaethii is probably the best 
of all the golden variegated shrubs, and variegata is a very useful 
plant, with silver variegated leaves ; Baileyi is a red-barked shrub 
from North America ; florida, the flowering Dogwood of Eastern North 
America, is very showy by reason of the white, or sometimes red, 
bracts which surround the flower-heads — it must have a sunny spot ; 
macrophylla is a handsome tree-like kind from North India, China, 



124 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

and Japan, its large blue-green leaves and heads of cream flowers 
are attractive ; Mas is the Common Dogwood, Cornelian Cherry, or 
Cornel of our hedgerows, it forms a large bush up to 20 feet high, 
and bears bright yellow flowers during February and March — there are 
several useful varieties with variegated leaves ; Nuttallii, one of the 
more tender kinds, is from California, its attractions are the large, 
white bracts surrounding the flower-heads, and the rich autumnal 
colouring of the leaves ; stolonifera, from North America, has bright 
red bark, and the var. flaviramea, golden bark. 

Corokia Cotoneaster is the most useful kind in this group, which 
belongs to the Dogwood family (Cornaceae). It is a curious and showy 
shrub from New Zealand, suitable for a position against a south or 
west wall in the South of England, or in some parts it may be grown 
in the open. Grown naturally, it forms a dense bush of thin, wiry, 
tortuous shoots, clothed with small, spoon-shaped, dark green leaves, 
and in May or June bears a profusion of star-shaped golden blossoms. 
As a bush it requires no regular pruning. Against a wall sufficient 
pruning must be given after flowering to keep it in place. Scarlet 
fruits sometimes ripen on plants against a wall. Ordinary garden 
soil is suitable, and increase is by means of cuttings. 

Coronilla. — A group of plants belonging to the Pea family 
(Leguminosae), principally natives of Southern Europe, and com- 
posed of herbaceous perennials and shrubs. Most of them need a 
light, well-drained soil in a sunny spot. The herbaceous kinds are 
increased by seeds, and the shrubby kinds by cuttings put in sandy 
soil in a close and shaded frame in August. The chief species are : 
cappadocica, a pretty little trailing plant, suitable for the rock garden, 
the yellow Pea-shaped blossoms appear during July and August ; 
coronata, of half- shrubby character, 2 feet high, bears yellow flowers 
in umbels in July and August ; elegans is a trailing kind with pinkish- 
white blossoms from July to October, it thrives well on old walls ; 
Emerus is a hardy deciduous shrub, reaching a height of 4 to 5 feet, 
and bearing yellow Pea-shaped flowers in spring ; glauca is an ever- 
green species, hardy in the milder parts of the country, but in others 
requiring greenhouse protection, it bears a profusion of light yellow 
flowers ; varia bears pink Pea-shaped blossoms, borne from June 
to autumn, it reaches the height of 2 feet, and will thrive in dry, 
sandy soil. 

Cortaderia [Pampas Grass). — The genus Cortaderia (Natural 
Order Gramineae) is but a small one, but contains some of the most 
ornamental of all hardy grasses. The best known is the Pampas 
Grass, Cortaderia argentea, which used to be known, and is still usually 



CORYDALIS 125 

met with in gardens, as Gynerium argenteum. It forms a handsome 
mass of gracefully recurving leaves, and late in summer, or more often 
in autumn, the large plume-like heads of silvery white flowers appear. 
As an isolated specimen on the lawn the Pampas Grass is most striking. 
The popular name is derived from the fact that the plant is a native 
of the open Pampas of South America. If the large plumes are cut 
while they are still in good condition and hung up in an airy room to 
dry, they are of great service for decorative purposes during winter. 
Under cultivation different forms of the Pampas Grass have been 
obtained ; the var. nanum is characterised by dwarfer growth, while 
the flower-heads develop sooner than those of the typical kind. In 
some districts this is an advantage, as the inflorescences of the ordinary 
one are sometimes injured by frosts. There is a variety of which the 
flower plumes are of pink shade, known as carneum, Rendatlerii, and 
Roi des Roses ; there appears to be little if any difference between 
them. Cortaderia conspicua, from New Zealand, resembles the Pampas 
Grass, but is smaller and more slender in growth, while its plumes 
develop a little earlier ; this used to be known as Arundo conspicua. 
The third to mention is a very scarce and little-known species, namely 
jubata, with flower panicles of pale straw tint suffused with purple ; 
the inflorescences are branching, and well overtop the long, narrow 
drooping leaves. Before planting Cortaderia, the ground must be 
deeply dug, well-decayed manure being freely mixed in. A sheltered 
spot should be chosen, so that the plumes may not be damaged by 
strong wind. 

Corydalis (Fumitory). — An extensive group (Natural Order 
Fumariaceae), chiefly hardy herbaceous perennials, most of which 
are easily grown ; many are well suited to the rock garden, preferring 
light soil. They are often grown in an old wall, and will cover a rough 
bank attractively. They are natives of the temperate regions of the 
globe, several new kinds having recently been imported from China. 
The flowers, which are in terminal spikes or heads, are usually of a 
somewhat tubular shape with a prominent lip, and often attended 
by large leaf-like bracts. Many of the Fumitories are attractive by 
reason of their prettily divided leaves, often of glaucous tint. The 
average height is about 12 inches. A selection of the best comprises : 
bracteata, yellow, May and June ; bulbosa, pale pink, April and May ; 
cheilanthifolia, fern-like leaves and yellow flowers from spring until 
autumn ; lutea, yellow flowers nearly throughout the year, fern-like 
foliage, very useful for old walls ; nobilis, yellow flowers with dark 
centre and prettily cut leaves ; this needs a fairly moist soil in a 
shady spot. In Corydalis thalictrifoHa the pale green leaves are very 



126 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

finely divided, and the yellow flowers profusely borne throughout the 
summer months ; this is one of the most ornamental, but being some- 
what tender it requires a sheltered, well-drained position on the rock 
garden ; a little-known Chinese species is Wilsonii, with glaucous, 
fern-like leaves and bright yellow flowers. There are several 
tuberous-rooted kinds, of which Scouleri, rose-purple. May ; and 
tuberosa, purplish, March, are the best. These are increased by 
offsets from the tubers in autumn, or by seed ; and the fibrous- 
rooted kinds by division in autumn or by seed. 

Corylopsis. — A group of shrubs from China, Japan and the 
Himalaya, allied to the Witch Hazels, and belonging to the same 
family (Hamamelidaceae), but less generally hardy. So far as winter 
is concerned they never suffer, but growth and flowers appear early 
in April, and late frosts sometimes cut both rather badly. The flowers 
are usually fragrant, golden in colour with red anthers, and borne in 
catkins from buds on the previous year's shoots. They require fairly 
light loam in which a httle peat or leaf-mould has been dug, and 
are increased by means of seeds. Pruning is confined to an occasional 
thinning of the old worn-out growths. The best are : Grilfithii, a 
Himalayan bush, 4 to 5 feet high ; pauciflora, an elegant free-flowering 
kind from Japan, with pale yellow flowers and dainty leaves, which 
are green and bronze during early spring— it is worth growing in the 
greenhouse ; spicata, a Japanese bush and fairly hardy ; Veitchii, a 
new species from China. 

Corylus (Nut). — This group consists of nut-bearing trees and 
shrubs (Natural Order Cupuliferae), its best-known representatives 
being the Common Hazel of our woods and hedgerows, and the Filberts 
and Cobnuts of gardens. The different kinds are found in Europe, 
Asia and North America. As a rule, they are large bushes up to 
20 feet high, but certain Eastern European, Himalayan and Chinese 
sorts form moderate-sized trees with trunks 12 to 15 inches in diameter. 
The timber of such trees is useful for cabinet work, etc., whilst coppice 
grown plants of Common Hazel produce good stakes which are used 
for crate and basket making, hurdles, etc. All thrive in loamy soil 
which may be either light or heavy, and the species are increased by 
seeds, the varieties by grafting, cuttings and layering. Bushes must 
be kept moderately thin for fruiting purposes, and Cobnuts and Filberts 
are often pruned on the spur system, the side shoots being cut back 
in winter. The Hazels are included in the catkin-bearing section of 
trees and shrubs, the tassel-like catkins of golden male flowers being 
conspicuous during late winter. The small red female flowers appear 
on the same bushes. A few kinds are grown for their ornamental 




BEDS OF THE SUMMER CYPRESS (KOCHIA TRICHOPHYLLA) 



COSMOS 127 

foliage. The best sorts are : Avellana, Common Hazel — the variety 
aurea has golden leaves, heterophylla finely cut leaves, and pendula 
has weeping branches ; Colurna, the Constantinople Hazel, forms a 
tree 30 to 40 feet high, it is useful as a lawn specimen ; Jacquemonti 
is a Himalayan tree, somewhat like the last-named ; maxima, from 
South Europe, is best known by its purple-leaved var. atropurpurea — 
the Barcelona nuts are considered to be derived from a form of this 
species ; americana is a North American species, the leaves of which 
colour well in autumn. Good garden nuts are : Bergeri, a free-bearing 
cob ; Kentish Cob, a good market variety ; Webb's Prize Cob, very 
fine nuts ; Prolific Filbert, a good-flavoured kind ; Red Filbert, a 
handsome variety. 

Cosmos. — Annuals with prettily divided leaves and single DfihHa- 
like flowers, belonging to the Daisy family (Compositae). They reach 
a height of from 3 to 6 feet. The Cosmos have long been known in 
this country, and though popular in America have never been much 
grown here, owing to the fact that their blossoms open late and are 
liable to be spoilt by frost. Of late, however, by continual selection, 
an earher flowering race has been obtained, and this has led to their 
being more generally cultivated. The flowers in the different varieties 
are of various shades of white, pink, rose, and crimson ; they are 
extremely useful for cutting. Seed must be sown in warmth in 
February, and the young plants put in the open ground late in May. 
Moderately rich soil suits them best. 

Cotoneaster {Rockspray). — An important group of evergreen or 
deciduous shrubs or small trees, natives of Europe, the Himalaya, 
China, and a few from other countries. They belong to the Rose 
family (Rosaceae). The majority are found in the Himalaya and 
China, those from the former region having been introduced about 
the middle of last century, whilst the greater number of the Chinese 
kinds have been brought to our gardens within the last fifteen years. 
Most kinds are perfectly hardy and are grown largely on account of 
their decorative fruits ; a few are, however, showy when in flower, 
others are good evergreens, whilst the leaves of some of the deciduous 
kinds colour well in autumn. The large-growing sorts are excellent 
plants for shrubberies, specimen groups, or isolated plants, whilst 
those of dwarf or more or less scandent growth are useful for the 
rock garden, dry banks, or for planting against walls. Loamy soil, 
light rather than heavy, is most suitable, though they are not very 
particular in this respect. Propagation is by cuttings or seeds. Various 
kinds are sometimes grafted upon the Common Thorn, but the prac- 
tice ought not to be encouragedj Pruning is confined to cutting 



128 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

back 5'oung plants in order to obtain a sturdy foundation, and 
others which may be outgrowing their positions. Regular pruning, 
however, is unnecessary. 

The best of the older kinds are : acutifolia, an upright-growing 
kind from Mongolia, etc., with showy fruits ; bacillaris, one of the most 
vigorous Himalayan kinds, grows from i8 to 25 feet high, spreads 
widely, and bears a profusion of small dark purple fruits ; buxifolia 
is a vigorous evergreen bush, with small Box-like leaves, the white 
flowers are followed by showy red fruits ; Franchetii, native of Yunnan, 
grows 8 feet high and bears scarlet fruits ; frigida sometimes grows 
from 30 to 35 feet high, with a very wide spread, it is native of the 
Himalaya, and bears large dense heads of cream-coloured flowers, 
which are followed by bright red fruits, HorizontaHs is a very dis- 
tinct Himalayan kind : as a bush it grows about 18 inches high, but 
against a wall it will attain a height of 12 feet, the scarlet fruits and 
autumnal leaf-colouring are alike attractive ; microphylla is a dwarf 
kind, suitable for the rock garden, but it also thrive against a wall, 
sometimes attaining a height of 15 or 18 feet, its tiny evergreen leaves, 
white flowers and red fruits are all ornamental — the var. glacialis is 
dwarfer than the type. Rotundifolia is a sub-evergreen Himalayan 
species, for the leaves are retained until early spring : it is, perhaps, 
the most useful of all, for its bright red fruits remain in good con- 
dition from October until March ; Simonsii is an upright-growing 
Himalayan shrub with scarlet and yellow fruits. 

The chief new kinds are : bullata, native of China, a deciduous 
bush with wrinkled ovate leaves, which bears large bunches of rich red 
fruits ; divaricata, a handsome deciduous bush, 3 or 4 feet high, with 
something of the general appearance of horizontalis, though more 
vigorous ; harroviana is a small red-fruited evergreen ; henryana, 
8 to 10 feet high, forms a loose bush, bearing evergreen leaves and 
red fruits ; salicifolia has long, narrow leaves and red fruits ; there 
are several varieties of this, of which floccosa and rugosa are distinct. 

Cotton Thistle. — {See Onopordon.) 

Cotyledon. — The few hardy Cotyledons (Natural Order Crassu- 
laceae) are of little value from an ornamental point of view, but there 
are now included different succulent plants so much used for summer 
bedding, and commonly known as Echeveria. This name is too 
firmly fixed to be easily eliminated, but all botanists concur in re- 
garding them as Cotyledon. The different kinds are used in various 
ways, the dwarf ones, and especially secunda glauca, being generally 
employed as an edging to beds. In carpet bedding this plant often 
furnishes the required dividing lines, one great advantage being that 



J 



CRAMBE 129 

it does not outgrow the height required. The larger growing kinds, 
of which metaHica may be taken as an example, are often used as 
"dot" plants among low plants in formal bedding, while in beds 
of succulents arranged out-of-doors during summer the metallic tone 
of foliage imparts pleasing variety. The Cotyledons or Echeverias are 
readily increased by seeds, when they can be obtained ; they are 
sown in spring in warmth, the seedlings being pricked off when large 
enough to handle. The popular variety secunda glauca is, however, so 
prolific in suckers or side growths that it can be propagated to almost 
any extent in that way. The plants are lifted in autumn before frost 
has injured them, and the side shoots are pulled off and dibbled in 
boxes of light sandy soil. If wintered on a greenhouse shelf they 
will form good plants by the time the bedding-out season comes round. 
The older plants may be wintered in the same way or potted singly. 
Failing seed of the larger kinds, such as metallica, they may be pro- 
pagated by pulling off in autumn any leaves that can be spared from 
the lower portion of the stem, inserting them as cuttings in light 
sandy soil, and keeping them on a greenhouse shelf, giving little 
water. Cotyledons must be wintered in a structure from which 
frost is excluded, and very little water is required. Any attempts 
to winter them in a cold frame and protect from frost by heavy cover- 
ings generally end in failure, owing to an excess of moisture, which 
proves harmful. 

Crambe {Sea Kale). — One member of this group, which belongs 
to the Wallflower family (Cruciferae), namely Crambe maritima (Sea 
Kale), is of considerable value from an economic standpoint, being a 
choice and much- appreciated vegetable. As far as ornamental qualities 
are concerned it is, however, greatly surpassed by cordifolia, a native 
of the Caucasian district. This is a stately and noble plant, with 
large heart-shaped leaves that require ample room for their develop- 
ment. The loose flower-heads, which are often 6 feet in height, and 
nearly as much through, are composed of myriads of small white 
flowers, which at a little distance may be likened to a giant specimen 
of Gypsophila ; it blooms during June and July. Like the Sea Kale 
itself, this Crambe may be readily increased by root cuttings taken 
in winter, pieces of root 4 to 5 inches long being planted in open, 
sandy soil ; they should be placed in an upright position, and covered 
with about 3 inches of soil. 

Crane's Bill. — {See Geranium.) 

Crataego-Mespllus is a group composed of two kinds of tree 
belonging to the Rose family (Rosaceae), These trees are of more 
than ordinary interest, for they originated as graft hybrids after a 
J 



130 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Mespilus or Medlar had been grafted upon a stock of Common Crataegus 
or Wliite Thorn. Shoots were produced which eventually bore leaves, 
flowers, and fruits of three distinct kinds, some exactly hke those of 
the Medlar, some similar to those of the White Thorn, and others 
intermediate between the two. These kinds have been perpetuated 
by grafting, and are good decorative trees ; they are named Dardari 
and Asnieresii. Both bear white flowers and require treatment 
similar to the Thorns. 

Crataegus {Thorn). — This is a showy and important group of 
trees and shrubs belonging to the Rose family (Rosaceae), natives 
of Europe, Asia, and North America, chiefly of the last-named country. 
The best known is the Common Whitethorn of our commons and 
hedgerows, while there are others with double scarlet and white 
flowers which are conspicuous throughout the country in spring and 
by their showy fruits in autumn. Many hundreds of species have 
been described, but some are much better than others for ornamental 
planting. There are few parts of the country where the Thorns may 
not be planted, for they are generally hardy, and thrive in a great 
variety of soils, loam being the best. When young, it is desirable 
to keep the side branches shortened and thinned out, in order that 
strength may be transmitted to the leading shoots and so encour- 
age height growth. Pruning in later life is confined to thinning the 
branches, and this may be done after the flowers have fallen. Pro- 
pagation of the species is by seeds, and of the varieties by grafting 
or budding upon stocks of the type. Seeds often take from two to 
three years to vegetate after being sown, and to economise space 
they are often stored for one year in a heap of sand. The Whitethorn 
or Quick is one of the best of all hedge plants, especially for loamy 
or heavy land, and there is no better fence than a well-kept hedge 
of Quick for farm land. Of dense habit, with spiny branches, it stands 
clipping well, and if kept free from coarse weeds and clipped regu- 
larly, such a hedge remains in good condition for a very long period. 

The chief species and varieties are : Azarolus, a native of the Orient, 
bears white flowers in May, which are followed by large, fleshy, sweet 
fruits which ripen in September ; Carrierei, a hybrid which blooms in 
late May, the orange-scarlet fruits ripen in September and remain 
until Christmas ; coccinea, the Scarlet Haw of the United States, is 
one of the most beautiful Thorns, the white flowers of May are followed 
by large bunches of rich red fruits in September, the leaves turning to 
golden shades before they fall; cordata, the Washington Thorn, 
forms a good-sized tree, which bears large quantities of small scarlet 
Haws; Crus-galli is the Cockspur or Newcastle Thorn (the former 



CRINUM 



131 



name was originally adopted by reason of the long, straight spines 
which arm the branches), flowers and fruits are showy — the varieties 
ovalifolia and splendens are specially worthy of note ; macracantha, 
of the United States, bears very beautiful red fruits ; mollis is much 
like coccinea, except that it has hairy leaves. 

Crataegus Oxyacantha, the Common Hawthorn or Whitethorn, is 
made up of two subspecies, monogyna and oxyacanthoides : there 
are many varieties of both, but 
those with double flowers are 
most approved : flore pleno albo, 
with white flowers ; flore pleno 
coccineo, scarlet ; flore pleno 
puniceo, red ; and flore pleno 
rosea, rose, are the best of the 
doubles. Other useful varieties 
are : aurea, pendula, macrocarpa, 
praecox (the Glastonbury^ Thorn), 
and stricta. 

Crataegus prunifolia is showy 
alike for fruits and autumn foli- 
age, while orientalis and punctata 
are worth growing. Crataegus 
Pyracantha is referred to under' 
the latter name. 

Crinum. — Nearly all the 
Crinums (Natural Order Amaryl- 
lidaceae) require a warm green- 
house. The hardiest is longi- 
folium, a native of the Cape of 
Good Hope ; this has a club- 
shaped bulb, which passes the 
winter in a dormant state — the 
leaves produced in spring are 
strap-shaped and over 3 feet long. 
In summer the flower spike 
reaches a height of 3 to 4 feet, bearing a terminal umbel of six to 
eight funnel-shaped flowers about 6 inches in length, white, flushed on 
the exterior with pink. Another species, Crinum Moorei, is fairly 
hardy in a sheltered spot, but not so reliable as longifolium. The 
bulb of Crinum Moorei is more globose than that of the other, while 
the flowers are larger and more widely expanded. They are white at 
first, afterwards becoming shghtly suffused with blush. Between 




AN 

ORNAMENTAL 

THORN 



(Crataegus 
orientalis) 



132 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

these two species a hybrid has been raised, which is without doubt the 
finest hardy Crinum we have. This is Crinum Powelhi, altogether a 
more vigorous plant than either of its parents. Full-grown bulbs 
are nearly as long and stout as a man's leg, and fully-developed 
leaves are about 6 feet in length ; the sturdy flower spike, which 
develops from the side of the bulb, bears an umbel of broadly 
funnel-shaped flowers. In the typical kind they are of some shade 
of deep pink or rose, but there is a variety with pure white blossoms 
which is really charming. The flowers are, as a rule, at their best in 
July and August. In planting Crinums a certain amount of care is 
needed. It is not sufficient just to stick the bulb in the ground, but 
sound preparation is necessary. In the case of large bulbs of 
Powellii the ground must be taken out to a depth of at least 4 feet, 
for the bulb must be nearly buried. Good drainage is essential, and 
the compost should consist of turfy soil, well-decayed manure, and 
sand, some of the latter being placed under and around the bulb. 
Crinums need a warm, sunny spot, such as in the angle formed by 
two walls, as the leaves, which are somewhat brittle, are thus pro- 
tected from rough winds. 

Crooosmia aurea. — A pretty little bulbous plant of the Iris 
family (Iridaceae), native of South Africa, that produces several sword- 
shaped leaves which are overtopped by a 2-feet high stem, bearing 
a spike of orange-red flowers in July. It is not quite hardy, and 
needs to be planted about 6 inches deep in a waiTn, well-drained 
border in early spring. Apart from its own intrinsic merit, the 
Crocosmia is of especial interest from the fact that, crossed with 
Montbretia Pottsii, it gave rise to the present-day race of Mont' 
bretias, which form such a striking feature of our gardens during the 
late summer. 

Crocus. — The genus Crocus (Natural Order Iridaceae) is an exten- 
sive one, most of the species being natives of the Mediterranean region 
extending into Asia Minor. Although the Crocus is prominent among 
spring flowers, very few of the species or wild kinds are grown to any 
great extent. The garden varieties, corms (roots) of which are annually 
sent to this country from Holland in large quantities, are varieties of 
Crocus vernus, native of Southern Europe. While the Dutch varieties 
flower at much the same time, by growing some of the species one may 
have a succession of bloom over a long period. Crocuses, especially 
the early flowering ones, should be planted in July and August ; the 
flowers are not nearly so fine if the roots are kept out of the ground 
too long. Crocuses thrive best in sandy loam, but the popular varieties 
are not fastidious ; they are frequently grown in grass, and in this 




A BED OF TULIP INGLESCOMBE PINK 



CROCUS 133 

way make a charming show. The yellow-flowered varieties are the 
showiest of all for this purpose. A suitable tool for planting bulbs in 
turf may be obtained, and by its use a large number can be planted 
in a short time. For purposes such as this those classed according 
to colour may be used, but if choicer kinds are desired the following 
can be recommended : Albion, blue and white striped ; Caesar, 
purple ; Celestial, blue ; Golden Yellow ; Kathleen Parlow, white ; 
King of the Blues, rich purple-blue ; Maximilian, blue, shaded pink ; 
Mont Blanc, white ; Pallas, finely striped blue and white ; Prince 
Albert, dark blue ; Purpurea grandiflora, deep purple ; and Sir 
Walter Scott, white, striped lilac. 

Of the species the following are autumn flowering : asturicus, 
ranging in colour from pale mauve to purple-lilac, with darker stripes 
at the base ; Fleischerii, white, purple base ; hadriaticus, white, 
purple base ; iridiflorus, deep lilac ; longiflorus, lilac ; medius, white, 
veined inside ; pulchellus, lavender-blue ; Salzmannii, blue ; sativus, 
violet, feathered purple ; speciosus, blue, the finest of all the autumn 
kinds ; and Tournefortii, rose lilac. 

A few kinds bloom in winter, but are, as a rule, not seen at their 
best out-of-doors at that season unless the flowers are protected. 
Chief among them are : chrysanthus, flowers more or less golden ; 
Imperati, bluish-white, purple stripes, yellow throat ; Korolkowii, 
yellow, dark outside ; Sieberii, pale violet ; suaveolens, lilac inside, 
dark striped outside ; and tommasinianus, lavender and white. They 
are charming for pots in a cold greenhouse. 

The spring-flowering species are numerous, a good selection t^ing : 
alatavicus, white, veined black outside ; ancyrensis, orange-yellow ; 
aureus, deep orange ; biflorus, white, striped purple ; lunatus, white, 
striped violet ; luteus, golden-yellow ; stellaris, orange, feathered pur- 
plish-brown ; and versicolor, white, richly striped purple, j^cllow throat. 

Crosswort. — (See Crucianella.) 

Crowfoot.— (S^e Ranunculus.) 

Crown Imperial.— (S^g Fritillaria.) 

Crucianella (Crosswori). — Chiefly low-growing herbaceous peren- 
nials belonging to the same family as Bouvardia (Rubiaceae). Cru- 
cianefla stylosa is chiefly grown ; this is a good traihng plant, suit- 
able for sunny parts of the rock garden, and produces its prett}', bright 
pink flower-heads from spring until autumn. Others are : angusti- 
folia, white ; glauca, with yellow flowers ; maritima, cream-coloured ; 
and suaveolens, yellow. They are all easily grown in ordinary well- 
drained soil, and may be increased by division in autumn or by seeds 
in spring. 



136 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

most parts of the country, except in or near smoky towns. There 
are many varieties, of which aurea, lutea, and gracihs aurea, with 
golden leaves ; glauca and Silver Queen, with silvery foliage ; and 
gracilis pendula, intertexta, and filiformis, of pendent habit, should 
be grown. 

Cupressus nootkatensis is another useful tree from Oregon and 
British Columbia ; it can be distinguished from the Lawson Cypress 
by its spiny cones and strong resinous smell ; obtusa (Retinospora 
obtusa) is a distinct Japanese kind — the vars. aurea, compacta, gracilis 
aurea, and lycopodioides are worthy of note ; pisifera (Retinospora 
pisifera), also a Japanese tree, is another showy kind — the varieties 
plumosa aurea, argentea, fiavescens, and squarrosa sulphurea are 
amongst the most ornamental of the small bushy Conifers. 

Cuscuta {Dodder). — The Cuscutas (Natural Order Convolvulaceae) 
are singular climbing plants, remarkable from the fact that they are 
quite leafless, and consist only of thread-like stems. They are also 
of a parasitic nature, and the slender stems attach themselves to the 
host plant by a number of little vesicles, by means of which the para- 
site derives its nourishment from the plant which supports it. Two 
kinds are native of this country, namely, the greater and the lesser 
Dodder, the last being the more common ; it may often be found 
growing on the Heath, Thyme, and Furze, while to some field crops 
— notably Vetches— it is very injurious. Pelargoniums bedded out 
during summer are sometimes attacked by it ; indeed, the Pelargonium 
seems to be a good host plant for all the Dodders. An Indian sort, 
refiexa, may sometimes be seen growing on a Pelargonium in a green- 
house. The flowers of the Dodders are small and bell-shaped, and in 
some cases fragrant. Seeds may be sown in proximity to the host 
plant, to which the young twining stems will soon attach them- 
selves. One point, however, to remember is that the Dodders, owing 
to their parasitic nature, are dangerous plants to introduce into 
the garden. 

Cyananthus. — A group consisting of two species of pretty, free- 
flowering, procumbent plants, bearing a considerable resemblance to 
a Campanula. They belong to the Bellflower family (Campanulaceae). 
Both are natives of the Himalaya, and require a cool, moist situation 
in the rock garden, among the stones of which the roots can find 
ample supplies of moisture. A partially shaded spot and sandy peat 
soil are essential. They are increased by division, carried out in 
spring before they start into growth, but they should be disturbed as 
little as possible. The best known is Cyananthus lobatus, having 
purple-blue funnel-shaped flowers, with fine spreading segments. 



CYCLAMEN 137 

Cyananthus incanus is a much rarer plant, similar, but with soft 
azure-blue flowers ; they bloom in August. 

Cyclamen (Sowbread). — Everyone knows the Persian Cyclamen 
(persicum), a popular greenhouse flower, but the hardy kinds are not 
so generally appreciated. The Cyclamen belongs to the Primrose family 
(Primulaceae), and the hardy kinds are natives of the Mediterranean 
region. Though consisting of less than a dozen recognised species, 
there is enough variety among them to satisfy the most fastidious. 
Their flowering period is chiefly in spring and autumn ; they grow 
well in the shade of trees, and are admirably adapted for the rock 
garden. A fairly light, leafy soil, containing pieces of sandstone, 
suits them provided the situation is well drained. Above all, care 
must be taken that they are not fully exposed to the sun. The chief 
kinds are : africanum, a native of the calcareous mountains of Algeria, 
and a near relative of neapolitanum — the large, prettily marbled leaves 
are a distinguishing feature, in vigorous plants they measure from 
6 to 7 inches in diameter ; the flowers, which open in September 
and October, are reddish, with a bright purple spot at the base of 
the segments. In planting the corm must be entirely covered, as 
this species roots over its entire surface, unlike some of the others, 
that root only from their base. Cyclamen cilicicum is a pretty little 
kind, more delicate than some of the others, and is particularly suitable 
for a sheltered spot on the rock garden ; the flowers are whitish with 
red centre, and appear in early spring. 

Cyclamen Coum is a delightful little plant, and one of the most 
popular as well as most distinct. The corms (roots) are small and 
regular in shape, while the small, roundish, dark-green leaves are 
evergreen, or nearly so ; at all events, they are in good condition 
when the rose-red flowers are open, from January to April. There 
are varieties with blossoms in shades of pink, and an especially 
charming one has pure white blooms; 

Cyclamen europaeum is more particular in its cultural requirements 
than some ; it seems to prefer leafy, sandy soil in a shaded position. 
The corms, which emit roots from the undersides only, should not be 
quite covered, otherwise they are apt to decay ; the bright rose- 
coloured flowers are sweetly scented, and are borne in September and 
October. The leaves are often prettily marbled. 

Cyclamen ibericum, sometimes known as vernum, flowers usually 
in February and March. It is somewhat similar to Coum, but the 
corms are larger, while the leaves are somewhat marbled. The pretty 
little kind grown in gardens as Atkinsii is regarded by botanists as 
a variety of ibericum; 



138 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Cyclamen neapolitanum bears a considerable resemblance to 
africanum, but it is hardier ; the leaves, too, are especially variable 
in shape, the flowers being chiefly reddish, though individuals vary, 
for some are almost white. 

Cyclamen repandum : Though this is the correct name, the species 
in question is more generally met with under the specific name of 
hederaefohum. It is a charming plant, the leaves, which are marbled 
on the upper surface and tinged with purple underneath, opening 
with the flowers, which are of deep reddish colour, and at their 
best during spring. 

Cynara {Artichoke).— As the two kinds in this group are both 
classed as vegetables, their ornamental qualities are rarely taken into 
consideration. They belong to the Daisy family (Compositae), and 
are natives of Southern Europe. Cynara Cardunculus is the Cardoon, 
and Scolymus the Globe Artichoke. Both are tall. Thistle-like plants 
with handsome leaves, and large bold heads of purple flowers. They 
can be propagated either from seeds sown in spring or by suckers 
from the old roots. When grown solely for their ornamental qualities, 
which are very evident when the plants are seen towards the back of 
the herbaceous border, they must be planted in rich, well-drained soil ; 
stagnant moisture during the winter months is injurious to them. 

Cynoglossum {Hound's Tongue). — The members of this genus 
are for the most part coarse-growing. Borage-like plants of a biennial 
or perennial nature. They belong to the Borage family (Boraginaceae). 
Ordinary garden soil is suitable. They can be readily increased, the 
biennial kinds by seeds and the perennial ones by division before 
growth takes place in spring. A selection of the best includes : amabile, 
blue, June and July, height 12 inches ; apenninum, rich blue, 2 feet, 
July and August ; furcatum, blue, 12 inches, summer ; and officinale, 
reddish, 2 feet, June. 

Cypella. — Iris-like plants (Natural Order Iridaceae), natives of 
South America. They are not quite hardy in the open ground, but 
will thrive in a narrow border at the foot of a sunny wall. Some grow 
them successfully by lifting the roots in the autumn, wintering them 
safe from frost, and replanting out-of-doors in spring. The species are 
Herbertii, flowers varying from light yellow to a deep chrome tint ; 
peruviana, bright yellow, spotted with reddish-brown ; and plumbea, 
with lead-coloured flowers tinged with yellow in the centre. The 
last-named, which is also known as Pohlia platensis, flowers in autumn, 
the two others in summer. 

Cyperus. — An extensive group of Grass- or Sedge-like plants 
(Natural Order Cyperaceae), most of which are natives of tropical 



CYPRIPEDIUM 139 

regions and are therefore unsuited for outdoor cultivation in this 
country. One, however, Cyperus longus, native of Europe and North 
Africa (occasionally occurring in Great Britain), is attractive when 
planted on the margin of water. It reaches a height of about 3 feet, 
and the long, narrow leaves are very graceful. It is readily increased 
by division, carried out in winter or early spring, and is not particular 
as to soil provided the situation is a swampy one. 

Cypripedium {Lady's 5^z/'/>^r).— Most of the Cypripediums (Natural 
Order Orchidaceae) are evergreen, and need the shelter of a warm green- 
house. However, some are perfectly hardy, all of them being decidu- 
ous. In their cultural requirements they differ considerably, so that 
no general instructions will apply. Most of them will thrive in a 
mixture of peat, leaf-mould, and sand. Others (our own native 
Cypripedium Calceolus, for instance) prefer loam soil containing lime. 
Generally speaking, all the hardy Cypripediums do best in a partially 
shaded spot where the soil is fairly moist and at the same time not 
waterlogged. 

Cypripedium acaule, also known as humile, produces from each 
crown two broad hairy leaves, and on an upright spike bears an 
abnormally large flower, as much as 3 inches across the segments. 
The pouch, fully 2 inches deep, is of rosy-purple colour, and split 
right down the front so as to present the appearance of two lobes. 
This kind grows readily in loam and sand, with the addition of a 
little peat or leaf-mould. Cypripedium Calceolus is a free-growing kind 
that reaches a height of about 2 feet. Generally two flowers are borne 
on a spike, their colour being yellow and brown ; the lip is yellow. 
Cypripedium californicum has leaves similar to those of Calceolus, 
but the erect flower spike bears sometimes as many as ten flowers. 
They are small and distinct, the pouch being white tinged with pink, 
while the rest of the flower is yellowish. This needs a peaty soil with 
a mixture of loam. Cypripedium macranthum is an exceedingly hand- 
some species, bearing large rosy-purple flowers on stems about 12 inches 
high. It is often grown in association with Calceolus, and needs the 
same soil and treatment. Cypripedium montanum produces flower 
stems about 12 inches high, bearing several flowers with twisted sepals 
of a purplish tint ; the pouch is whitish. Like the preceding, this 
may be treated as recommended for Calceolus. 

Cypripedium pubescens is one of the larger kinds, of which the 
flower stems reach 2 feet high and overtop the large hairy leaves. 
The petals and sepals, which are drooping and much twisted, are 
brown, tinged with yellow ; the pouch is yellow. This will thrive 
in moist, peaty soil. Cypripedium spectabile (also known as regale), 



140 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

popularly termed the Moccasin Flower, is undoubtedly the finest of 
all the hardy Cypripediums. It will reach a height of 2 to 3 feet, 
and bears two or three flowers on each stem ; they are white, with 
the exception of the lip, which is tinged more or less with rose. The 
Moccasin Flower likes well-drained yet moist, peaty soil. A well- 
established clump forms a very striking feature in a moist, sheltered 
spot in the rock garden. The various Cypripediums mentioned flower 
as a rule in May or June ; most of them are natives of North 
America, though macranthum comes from Siberia. 

Cyrilla racemiflora (Leaiherwood). — This shrub (Natural Order 
Cyrillaceae) is a native of the Southern United States, where it is 
known as Leatherwood. Forming a small bush 2 or 3 feet high, it 
bears racemes of small white flowers during August. Plant in the 
southern counties, in light loamy soil containing a little leaf-mould 
or peat, and propagate from cuttings or seeds. Limit pruning to the 
removal of the points of the shoots in spring. 

Cystopteris {Bladder Fern). — A small group of Ferns (Natural 
Order Filices) with delicately cut fronds and of refined appearance. 
Of the four kinds in cultivation three are natives of this country, 
but not of this country alone, while one, Cystopteris bulbifera, comes 
from North America. The Bladder Ferns are well suited for planting 
in moist, shady portions of the rock garden close to the eye, so that 
their fronds can be closely inspected. A soil of loam, peat, leaf-mould, 
broken mortar, and pieces of limestone suits them. They are decidu- 
ous ; the leaves die off early in autumn, and are late starting into 
growth in the spring. The species are : alpina, fronds from 4 to 8 
inches long and 2 inches wide — it is rare in Britain but common on many 
of the mountains of Europe ; the second, bulbifera, more vigorous, 
is native of a considerable portion of North America — the bulbils 
towards the ends of the fronds are a distinguishing feature. Of quite 
a cosmopolitan character is fragilis, for it occurs in nearly all the 
temperate regions of the globe ; there are many garden forms of this. 
Cystopteris montana, the most beautiful of all, needs particular care ; 
it requires a moist, shady spot and a compost made up of stones, 
fibrous peat, and sand. 

Cytisus (Broom). — This is an important genus of the Pea family 
(Leguminosae), comprising a considerable number of hardy shrubs and 
a few which are too tender for general outdoor cultivation in the British 
Isles. The majority are natives of Europe, and one species, scoparius, is 
wild in the British Isles. The last-named is known as the Common 
Broom, and the term Broom is generally applied to them all. They 
thrive in ordinary garden soil, but prefer that of a light loamy nature. 







ON THE MORAINE (EDRAIANTHUS PUMILIO) 




HERON'S BILL (ERODIUM TRICHOMANAEFOLIUM) 



DABOECIA POLIFOLIA 141 

Some kinds, however, are wonderfully successful in poor, gravelly soil on 
sunny banks. Propagation is effected by several means ; the species 
are usually raised from seeds, whilst the hybrids and varieties are 
increased by cuttings or by grafting upon stocks of Laburnum. The 
latter is perhaps the better means, providing fairly hard shoots are 
used as scions. Plants must be placed in permanent quarters whilst 
quite small, as large ones transplant badly. In fact, it is a good plan 
to place them straight out from pots. The tops of young plants should 
be cut back occasionally to induce a bushy habit. Pruning in after 
life consists of shortening the previous year's shoots after flowering. 
On no account cut plants back into older wood, for young shoots will 
not appear from old branches. One kind, purpureus, needs different 
pruning ; the branches may be cut away each year after flowering ; 
new ones will then be formed from the base. The Brooms do not 
remain at their best for more than six or eight years. 

The following form a selection of species and varieties : albus, 
White Spanish Broom, native of Spain and Portugal, white. May ; 
Ardoini, a prostrate, golden-flowered plant from the Maritime Alps, 
suitable for the rockery ; Beanii is a beautiful golden-flowered hybrid 
of low growth, it is a good rockery plant ; biflorus, from Eastern Europe, 
blooms in April ; Dallimorei is a new, tall-growing hybrid with showy, 
rosy purple flowers ; Kewensis, a dwarf kind with cream flowers, is 
suitable for the rock garden ; nigricans flowers in July from the young 
wood, it may be pruned in spring ; praecox is a free-growing and free- 
flowering hybrid with cream-coloured fiovv^ers, it grows 4 to 5 feet high, 
and is a good shrubbery plant ; purpureus is an Eastern European 
plant, 12 to 18 inches high, it bears purplish flowers in May ; scoparius, 
the Common Broom, is handsome either in a state of nature or in 
the garden, its var. Andreanus has bronze and golden flowers, whilst 
sulphureus, sometimes called the Moonlight Broom, has sulphur- 
coloured blossoms. 

Daboecia polifolia [Irish Heath). — This plant is closely allied to 
the Heaths (Natural Order Ericaceae), and is sometimes called St. 
Dabeoc's Heath. It is native of South-West Europe, and also occurs 
wild in Ireland. It grows from 6 to 15 inches high, and requires similar 
treatment to the true Heaths. Light soil is the most suitable, but 
it must be free from lime. Pruning takes the form of removing the 
flower heads and an inch or so of each branch after the blossoms are 
over. The red, white, or purplish flowers are urn-shaped and borne 
in erect racemes. Flowering commences in June and is continued 
throughout summer until a glorious burst of blossom, lasting from 
the middle of August until towards the end of September, brings 



142 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 



the season to an end. The var. alba has white flowers, and bicolor 
bears red and white flowers on the same stalk. 

Dacrydium. — This is a small 
group of Conifers (Natural Order 
Coniferae), the four introduced 
kinds being natives of New Cale- 
donia, New Zealand, Malaya, and 
Tasmania respectively. All are 
\ tender, and the hardier ones can 
|\y only be grown out-of-doors in a 
\| few gardens in the British Isles. 
They are therefore of little general 
interest. Dacrydium cupressinum 
and Franklini are the hardiest 
kinds. Plant in well-drained soil 
composed of loam and peat or loam 
and leaf -mould. 

Dactyl is {Cock's-foot Grass). — 
Hardy Grasses (Natural Order 
Gramineae), a few of which are 
grown in gardens. Dactylis glome- 
rata is a common grass in Europe, 
including Britain ; it grows about 
2 feet high, and is of no garden 
value, but there is an attractive 
variety with green and silvery 
striped leaves which is grown for use in summer bedding, generally as 
an edging to large beds or borders, though sometimes planted as a 
groundwork for tall Fuchsias, Heliotropes, etc., or as " dot " plants 
in low beds. The variegated Cock's-foot Grass (glomerata var 
variegata) is a hardy perennial, readily propagated by division of 
the roots in October ; it may be planted in autumn or spring, and 
thrives freely in ordinary soil. 
Daffodil. — (See Narcissus.) 

Dahlia. — Most if not all the beautiful Dahhas (Natural Order 
Compositae) now in cultivation are thought to have been obtained 
from Dahha coccinea and Dahlia variabilis, two tuberous-rooted, half- 
hardy perennials, natives of Mexico. They are propagated from seeds, 
cuttings, and division of the tuberous roots. Sow the seeds in a heated 
greenhouse during February and March, pot off the seedlings singly when 
large enough, and grow in a greenhouse or frame until the end of 
May, when it is safe to plant out-of-doors. Single Dahlias come fairly 




FLOWER OF A 
SINGLE DAHLIA 



DAHLIA 



143 



true from seeds, but in the case of the Show and Cactus section only 
a few with good full-double flowers can be hoped for. Florists who 
specialise in Dahlias raise hundreds of seedlings every year, but very 
few are retained as worthy to be named and distributed. The favour- 
ite method of increasing Dahlias is by cuttings. Early in February 
bring out the roots from their winter quarters, place them in a warm 
greenhouse in boxes containing leaf-mould, but do not cover the 
tubers. Syringe morning and evening on bright days, then young 
shoots will soon commence to push out. When these are about 
2 inches long, remove them with a small portion of the old tuber 
attached, and insert in pots of sandy soil in a closed frame. When 
rooted, pot off singly and grow as advised for the seedlings. Increase 
by division of the tubers is best done when growth has started, so 
that when pulling the roots apart shoots are left on each portion 
For this purpose the tubers should be started in a greenhouse or 
frame in March and early April. When increase of stock is not re- 
quired the roots may be taken straight from the store and planted 
outside at the end of April. By this method one obtains large bushy 
plants and lots of flowers, but the latter are not so fine as those on 
plants grown from cuttings; 

Dahlias delight in -rich, deeply dug soil. In beds and borders the 
plants flower freely from July until October or even later when the 
weather is mild. Owners of small 
gardens complain that Dahlias make 
too much growth, but there are now 
numbers of varieties 3 to 4 feet in 
height, compact and free-flowering. 
One essential in Dahlia cultivation is 
to grow the plants in open sunny 
positions. Thinning the shoots is 
necessary at intervals throughout the 
season, beginning when the young 
shoots are a few inches high ; these 
must be restricted to three or four. 
Secure each plant to a good stake 
and water liberally during dry 
weather, giving also liquid manure 
occasionally. It is necessary to re- 
move the old flowers as they fade, 
otherwise (especially in the case of 
the single sorts) the production of 
seed pods restricts the supply of cactus dahlia bloom 




%^ 



144 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

bloom. In late autumn or early winter, when frost kills the flowers 
and leaves, cut down the stems to within about i8 inches of the 
ground, lift the roots carefully, and store in a frost-proof shed or 
cellar, covering, if thought necessary, with dry litter. 

Dahlias grow from about 2 to 7 feet high ; the Paeony-flowered 
variety King Leopold sometimes reaches 9 feet in height. They are 
divided into groups or sections, according, generally, to the shape and 
size of the flowers. The Cactus type is one of the most popular, and 
is largely grown. The correct flowers are star-shaped, with numerous 
rolled or twisted petals radiating symmetrically from the centre. 
For garden decoration there are varieties known as Decorative Cactus 
Dahlias, in which the petals are more or less flat, or perhaps only 
twisted at the tips. The Show Dahlia has large, double, symmetrically 
formed blooms closely packed with petals of one colour. These are 
the oldest of the exhibition Dahlias, and still find chief favour in 
cottage gardens. The Fancy Dahlia is similar in build, but the flowers 
may comprise two or more colours. The Single Dahlias are very free- 
blooming, and are invaluable for indoor decoration. The quaint 
little flowers of the Pompon Dahlia, borne freely on stiff, erect stems, 
find many admirers. 

More recently the Paeony-flowered Dahlias, the first varieties of 
which came from Holland, have increased rapidly in popular favour. 
The big loose blooms on long stalks are freely produced, and make 
a brave show in the border, but the plants are too tall and branching 
for small gardens. The Collarette Dahlias are the latest to claim 
special attention ; they resemble the single varieties, but have a cir- 
cular frill surrounding the yellow centre. The plants are of moderate 
vigour and free-flowering. Still another section has recently been 
added, namely, the Star or Cosmea-flowered Dahlias ; these bloom 
freely and have single flowers. Two of the best are Crawley Star, 
rose ; and White Star. 

New and improved varieties of Dahlias are constantly appearing ; 
a list of sorts given here would soon be out of date, consequently it 
will be more helpful to the grower if the list of a Dahlia cultivator is 
consulted. 

Daisy.— (S^e Bellis perennis.) 

Danaea Laurus {Alexandrian Laurel) is a dwarf shrubby plant 
belonging to the Lily family (Liliaceae). It is allied to the Butcher's 
Broom, but is a more elegant plant with foliage of a lighter and more 
cheerful shade of green. The flowers are small and of little account, 
but they are succeeded by bright red berries. Cut branches are 
appreciated for house decoration in winter, either associated with 



DAPHNE 145 

other evergreens or used with flowers. It is a native of Asia Minor, 
grows about 18 inches high, and thrives in loamy soil in semi-shade 
or in sunny places. Propagate by seeds or division of the clumps, 
and restrict pruning to the removal of the older shoots. 

Daphne. — Fragrant flowered shrubs (Natural Order Thymel- 
aceae) suitable for the front of the shrubbery or for the rock garden. 
A few, however, are not generally hardy, and must be given the 
protection of a cool greenhouse. Some require soil containing lime, 
but Blagaj^ana and Cneorum thrive in sandy peat. They dislike 
hot, dry situations, and the best results are secured when the roots 
are in constantly moist, but not saturated, soil. Some kinds are in- 
creased by seeds, some by cuttings, and others by grafting ; pro- 
pagation other than by seed is, however, rather difficult. The follow- 
ing species and varieties are chiefly worth attention : Blagayana, a 
dwarf kind with cream-coloured flowers, from Carniola ; it should 
be grown on the rockery and the branches must be constantly weighted 
down by stones. Cneorum is the Garland Flower of the Alps, the 
beautiful, fragrant, rose-coloured blossoms are very attractive : plant 
on the rockery ; Laureola is an evergreen, British species, suitable for 
a shady spot ; Mezereum, the Common Mezereon, is well known as 
a handsome February-flowering bush, the reddish-purple flowers are 
very fragrant : the vars. alba and grandiflora, too, should be grown. 
Odora is a tender evergreen plant from China and Japan ; its fragrant 
flowers are attractive during winter. In Cornwall it may be grown 
out-of-doors. 

Daphniphyllum macropodum is a handsome evergreen bush 
from China and Japan, belonging to the Spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). 
It grows from 5 to 8 feet high and forms a wide-spreading shrub with 
glaucous green leaves with red stalks. The flowers are not con- 
spicuous. Propagation is by seeds, and the plant thrives in loamy 
soil or in loam and peat. No pruning is necessary after the bushes 
have once formed a number of branches from near the ground. Jezo- 
ensis is a dwarf variety, and variegata has pretty, silver variegated 
leaves. Unfortunately the last-named is not hardy. 

Darlingtonia {Calijornian Pitcher Plant). — This is one of the few 
Pitcher Plants (Natural Order Sarraceniaceae) that can be grown 
out-of-doors in this country. There is only one species, californica ; 
it grows from i foot to 2 feet in height, and has greenish-j^ellow flowers 
marked with dark red-brown veins during April and May. The leaves 
or pitchers are more ornamental than the flowers ; they are narrow 
at the base, and gradually increasing in width form at the top a kind 
of inflated hood ; they are green, mottled with white, with prominent 



146 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

reddish-pink veins. Propagation is by division in March and by 
seeds sown in a cool greenhouse when ripe. Prepare a compost of 
sphagnum moss, peat, charcoal, and coarse sand, sow the seeds on 
this, stand the pot in a saucer of water, and cover with a bell-glass. 
Plant in a moist, shady position in the rockery, bog garden, or with 
hardy ferns in a mixture of peat, sphagnum moss, broken limestone, 
and coarse sand. It is sometimes found desirable to cover the plants 
in winter with a handlight. 

Datura (Thorn Apple). — An interesting group of half-hardy 
annuals and greenhouse shrubs, belonging to the Potato family 
(Solanaceae), and natives of tropical America chiefly ; the former 
are the more important for outdoor gardening, though in warm, 
sheltered gardens the greenhouse Daturas (Brugmansia) are often 
placed outside from June to September. The annual Thorn Apples 
are readily raised from seeds sown in a warm greenhouse during 
February and March. Pot the seedlings singly in small pots, subse- 
quently transfer them to 5- or 6-inch pots, and plant in beds and 
borders out-of-doors in late May or early June. They like light, rich 
soil, made up of 2 parts sandy loam, i part leaf-mould, i part decayed 
manure, and i part coarse sand. The following are annuals, unless 
it is otherwise stated : ceratocaula, bears white, fragrant, trumpet- 
shaped flowers, tinged with purple, in July and August, 3 feet high ; 
cornucopia has double white flowers, shaded purple, in July to Septem- 
ber, 2 to 3 feet ; chlorantha flore pleno, with yellow, trumpet-shaped 
flowers in July and August, is a greenhouse perennial, but if sown 
early may be treated as an annual, 2 feet high upwards ; Metel bears 
white, fragrant, trumpet -shaped blooms from June onwards, 2 feet. 
Stramonium (Common Thorn Apple) has white flowers in July and 
August, followed by thorny or spiny fruits : it is about 2 feet high, 
and is found wild in many parts of the world, including Britain. 

Datura meteloides (Wrightii) produces large, fragrant, trumpet- 
shaped flowers, white, tinged with purple ; it is a Californian shrub 
and a splendid greenhouse plant, but if sown early it will grow about 
3 feet in height the first year, and flower outside during August and 
September. 

Davidia involucrata is a new tree belonging to the Dogwood 
family (Cornaceae). It is a native of China, and reports of its decora- 
tive character in a state of nature were such that Messrs. Veitch, of 
Chelsea, decided to send a collector to China, with the collection of 
seeds of this tree as one of the principal objects of his mission. One 
or two plants had been previously introduced to France, but it was 
through the initiative of Messrs. Veitch that the tree became available 




A CLUMP OF PERENNIAL LARKSPUR (DELPHINIUM) 



DECUMARIA 147 

in quantity. It is said to attain similar proportions in China to those 
of the Horse Chestnut here. The leaves are more or less ovate and 
up to 6 inches long. The flowers are small and borne in dense heads 
from buds on mature wood ; they are not showy, but this deficiency 
is made good by the large and handsome, white, leaf-like bracts which 
attend each inflorescence. In this country it grows vigorously in 
loamy soil, and has already flowered in several gardens. Propagation 
can be carried on by seeds or by cuttings. Prune to keep a clear 
leader and to remove superfluous branches. It is thought that more 
than one species is in cultivation, and different names have already 
been suggested for one or two kinds which vary in character of foliage. 
Of these Vilmorinii is perhaps the most distinct. 

Day Lily. — (See Hemerocallis.) 

Decumaria. — The best known of the Decumarias, which belong to 
the Natural Order Saxifragaceae, is barbara, a deciduous (leaf-losing) 
twiner from the Southern United States. It has white fragrant 
flowers in May and June, borne in tenninal corymbs suggestive of 
Hydrangea, to which it is closely related. Propagation is by cuttings 
inserted in sandy soil in a cold frame during August and September. 
It comes from the Southern United States and is rather tender, so 
should be planted against a sheltered fence or wall in well-drained 
soil of sandy loam, leaf-mould, and peat. 

Delphinium (Larkspur). — The numerous annual and perennial 
Larkspurs, which belong to the Buttercup family (Ranunculaceae), 
furnish our gardens with brilliant colouring throughout summer. The 
perennials are the best blue-flowered border plants ; they vary from 3 
to 6 feet or more in height, and flower from June to September. The 
florists' named varieties are exceedingly numerous, practically every 
shade of blue is represented in single, double, and semi-double flowers, 
while recently several varieties with white flowers have been intro- 
duced. The following are excellent varieties, comprising a wide range 
of colours : Double or Semi-double— Antigone, Carmen, King of Del- 
phiniums, Mrs. Creighton, Perfection, Primrose, Rev. E. Lascelles. 
Single — Belladonna, Duke of Connaught, Julia, Lamartin, Lizzie van 
Veen, Moerheimi (pure white), Persimmon, Queen Wilhelmina. While 
the named sorts make the bravest show in the garden, there are several 
very beautiful perennial species. The best are : Brunonianum, light 
blue, June to August, i| feet, Himalaya ; cardinale, scarlet, July to 
August, 3 feet, Cahfornia ; cashmirianum, slaty blue, June to August, 
1 1 feet, Himalaya ; formosum, rich indigo blue, June to July, 3 to 
4 feet, Armenia ; grandiflorum, beautiful gentian blue, June to 
September, i foot to 2 feet, Siberia : var. album is pure white, and 



148 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

var. caelestinum grey-blue ; nudicaule, orange-red, May to July, 
i^ feet, California ; sulphureum (Zalil), pale sulphur-yellow, June 
to August, 2 to 3 feet, Syria. 

The perennial Larkspurs are readily raised from seeds sown on 
a border out-of-doors or in a cold frame from April to June. To pro- 
duce flowering plants the same year seeds are sown in a warm green- 
house during February. The named varieties of florists' Delphiniums 
are the best, though many beautiful sorts can be raised from a packet 
of mixed seeds. These plants delight in deep, well-tilled, loamy 
soil enriched with decayed manure, leaf-mould, and wood ashes. 
They are increased by division of the roots in September or March. 
They dislike being disturbed, and may be left for four or five years 
without lifting. If the first flower spikes are cut off when the blooms 
fade a second display may be looked for in August if the plants are 
watered during dry weather and given liquid manure. For an autumn 
display of flowers seedlings raised in warmth early in the year are 
valuable. Most of the clumps produce numerous shoots and some 
should be removed ; if dibbled singly in small pots filled with sandy 
soil and placed in a closed frame they will root readily and make 
nice plants for autumn flowering. 

The annual Larkspurs are very effective in beds and borders. 
Plants of the different sections vary from i foot to 4 feet in height. 
The dwarf sorts are varieties of Delphinium Ajacis, a wild British 
kind, and the taller branching sorts are derived from Consolida, a 
European species. Seeds are best sown in the borders or beds where 
the plants are to flower, as they do not transplant readily. Sow in 
autumn or spring. The following are excellent strains of annual 
Larkspur : Dwarf Rocket, 12 inches ; Double Stock-flowered, 3 feet ; 
Emperor, 2 feet ; and Ranunculus-flowered, 18 inches. These strains 
can be purchased in mixed colours, or the following are obtainable 
separately : white, apple blossom, rose, lilac, dark blue, light blue, 
rosy-scarlet, purple, mauve, and violet. 

Dendromecon (Tree Poppy). — This is a rare Californian shrub, 
belonging to the Poppy family (Papaveraceae). The only species is 
rigidum, which has yeUow Poppy-like flowers during summer. It 
requires a sheltered spot in most gardens ; against a south or west 
wall or fence it wfll grow to a height of 5 feet or more. The border 
must be well drained ; if the soil is at all heavy dig it out to a depth 
of 2 feet, put in 6 to 9 inches of brick rubble, and fill up with 2 parts 
sandy loam, i part peat, and i part leaf-mould. Increase is by 
cuttings inserted in pots of sandy soil during August. Plunge 
the pots to the rim in a propagating frame with slight bottom heat. 



DESFONTAINEA SPINOSA 



149 



Another method of propagation is to layer the lower branches in 
autumn. 

Desfontainea spinosa is a decorative evergreen shrub (Natural 
Order Loganiaceae) from Chili and Peru. Of rather stiff and upright 
habit, it attains a height of 4 or 5 feet and is a popular shrub in the 
milder parts of the country. The somewhat thick, spiny-margined 
leaves suggest those of the Holly, though they are lighter coloured. 
The tubular scarlet and yellow flowers are, however, the chief attrac- 
tion. Each one is about 
i^ inches long and ^ inch 
in diameter ; they are 
borne freely during sum- 
mer. It may be planted 
in loamy soil or soil con- 
taining peat, requires a 
sunny position, and is 
increased by seeds or 
layers; Regular pruning 
is unnecessary. In those 
gardens where it will 
not grow successfully in 
the open border on ac- 
count of an unfavour- 
able climate, it may be 
planted against a wall. 

Deutzia. — The value 
of several kinds of 
Deutzia (Natural Order 
Saxifragaceae) as showy flowering shrubs has been appreciated for 
many years, but recently a number of others have been introduced 
from China and are equal in decorative qualities to the best of the older 
kinds. In addition, both new and old sorts have been crossed with 
very good results, and we have now a set of free-flowering and showy 
hybrids. The Deutzias, however, have one defect : they commence 
to grow very early, and the flower-buds of many kinds appear simulta- 
neously with the young shoots, although the actual flowering time 
is not until May, and their precocious nature frequently leads to the 
crippling of the flowers by late frosts. However, there are many 
gardens which escape late frosts, and whether or not, the earlier sorts 
are exceptionally valuable shrubs for forcing for greenhouse decora- 
tion during early spring. The Deutzias must be given rich loamy 
soil and a top-dressing of manure once a year, for they are " rank 




A Chilian Shrub (Desfontainea spinosa), having red 
and yellow flowers and Holly-like leaves 



I50 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

feeders." Propagation is by cuttings of the young shoots in summer. 
In pruning the dwarfer kinds and the hybrids it is a good plan to 
remove most of the flowering wood as soon as the flowers are over, 
thus leaving plenty of room for the numerous young shoots which 
appear from the base. The tall-growing sorts simply need an occa- 
sional thinning. 

The chief kinds are : corymbosa, a handsome Himalayan plant, 
bearing very large heads of white flowers ; crenata, a plant of many 
names, native of Japan, is often called scabra, and is one of the 
most vigorous kinds, growing lo feet high, it bears long racemes of 
white flowers with great regularity (flore pleno extus purpurea has 
double flowers shaded with purple, and Pride of Rochester has double 
white blossoms) ; discolor, a Chinese species, 3 to 4 feet high, bears 
purple-shaded flowers — the var. purpurascens is an improvement on the 
type ; gracilis is a well-known species from Japan, growing ij to 2 feet 
high, and bearing white flowers freely : it is often used for forcing ; 
parviflora, a native of China, grows 4 feet high, and bears white flowers 
freely. The three last-named kinds have been intercrossed, and there 
are many handsome hybrids, including campanulata, kalmiaeflora, 
Lemoinei, Apple Blossom, and compacta. 

Deutzia Wilsoni is a new Chinese species, with large heads of 
white flowers ; Veitchii, another new species from China, bears rich 
purple blossoms ; Vilmorineae, from the mountains of Setchuen, is 
a vigorous bush 8 feet high with large inflorescences of fine white 
flowers. 

Dianthus {Carnation, Picoiee, Pink, Sweet William). — The Dian- 
thus (Natural Order Caryophyllaceae) is a very large and important 
group of plants including as it does several well-known and highly 
valued garden flowers. 

Alpine or Rock Pinks. — We find some of these in every rock garden. 
They require a sunny position, gritty soil, and are never happier than 
when growing in the chinks between stones and boulders, or in old 
walls. Patches or groups of the free-growing kinds are effective 
along the front of a sunny border. Propagation is by division in 
September, by cuttings inserted in a cold frame during July and 
August, and by seeds sown in well-drained pans of sandy soil in a 
cold frame from April to July. The chief kinds are : alpinus, deep rose, 
spotted crimson, June to July, 4 inches, Alps of Austria, etc. ; aren- 
arius, white, pale purple base, fringed, 6 inches, Europe ; atrorubens, 
dark crimson, 12 to 18 inches, June to August, Southern Europe ; 
caesius (Cheddar Pink), rosy-purple. May to July, 2 or 3 inches, a 
good plant for old walls, Europe, including Britain ; deltoides (Maiden 




O 

00 

5 



Q 

< 
o 

>i 
o 
o 



DIANTHUS 151 

Pink), rosy-purple, tufted habit. May to July, 6 inches, Europe : the 
var. graniticus has deep-coloured flowers ; fragans, white single 
flowers, very fragrant, useful in rockery and border, July to August, 
12 inches, Caucasus ; glacialis, large rosy-crimson flowers, June to 
July, 3 inches, Alps of Europe ; Knappii, interesting because the flowers 
are pale yellow, May to July, 12 inches, Hungary, etc. ; neglectus 
(Glacier Pink), cherry red, June to July, quite a miniature species, 
2 to 4 inches, Europe ; superbus, rose, very fragrant, 12 inches, a 
favourite plant for the rockery and border. 

Some of the Alpine Pinks are quite easily grown in well-drained 
gritty soil with which broken brick or stone is freely mixed, but 
others need special care. Those that give no trouble are : arenarius, 
atrorubens, caesius, deltoides, graniticus, fragrans, Knappii, and super- 
bus. The Alpine Pink (alpinus) needs well-drained loam containing 
lime ; neglectus thrives in gritty loam with which lime rubble is mixed ; 
glacialis is very difficult, and is most likely to succeed in a compost 
of loam and peat containing granite or sandstone chips, and if placed 
in a slightly shaded rock crevice. Others worthy of mention are : 
callizonus, bearing unusually large crimson flowers with carmine mark- 
ing, and needing a cool spot in well-drained sandy soil ; cal-alpinus, 
a hybrid between callizonus and alpinus, needs similar treatment to 
alpinus ; microlepis is a tiny Pink that hkes a well-drained soil of 
peat and loam. These choice Alpine Pinks are often grown in a 
moraine ; in other words, on a slightly sloping bank from which the 
soil has been removed about 18 inches deep and replaced by stone 
chips with which a small proportion of soil is mixed. 

Border Pinks may be described as the sweetest of early summer 
flowers. The parent of the garden Pinks is Dianthus plumarius a 
wild plant of Eastern Europe. Pinks are never more effective than 
when forming an edging to the flower border, as shown in one of the 
colour photographs. The two chief requirements of the Pink are a 
sunny position and well-drained soil. Propagation is by layering the 
shoots immediately after flowering, by cuttings or pipings taken off 
early in July and inserted in boxes of sandy soil in a cold frame, or 
under a handlight on a cool, half-shaded border. A third method 
is to lift, divide, and replant in September. Pinks are also easily 
raised from seeds sown in April and May in boxes of light soil out-of- 
doors or in a frame. 

The Pinks are divided into two sections, the Border and Laced 
kinds. The following are some of the best. Border varieties — Albino, 
pure white ; Anne Boleyn, rosy-purple, dark purple centre ; Ascot, 
pink, darker centre ; Excelsior, rose, crimson centre ; Gloriosa, deep 



152 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

pink ; Her Majesty, pure white ; Mrs. Lakin, white, pink centre ; Mrs. 
Sinkins, pure white ; Progress, deep rose, crimson centre ; and Snow- 
flake, pure white. Laced varieties — Amy, maroon ; Chantilly, white, 
maroon centre ; Excellent, crimson ; Godfrey, reddish ; John Bull, 
dark plum ; Mrs. Waite, crimson ; Morna, maroon, crimson, and 
white ; Old Chelsea, rosy-red ; Reliance, red ; and Sarah, dark red. 

Several hybrid or Mule Pinks, crosses between two distinct types, 
have been raised in gardens : Napoleon III., crimson ; Lady Dixon, 
reddish crimson, and Marie Pare, pure white, are three of the best. 

Sweet William. — Dianthus barbatus, native of Southern and Eastern 
Europe, is the parent of the Sweet William. Seeds are sown outside 
during April or May, the seedlings, when large enough, being trans- 
planted, and in October or March — the former for preference — placed 
where they are to flower in June and July. The several strains of 
Sweet Williams have been considerably improved during recent years. 
This is particularly noticeable in the pink, salmon, and scarlet shades, 
of which, from seeds sold in separate packets, a very large percentage 
come true to colour. The following are distinct : Scarlet Beauty ; 
Pink Beauty ; Giant White ; Nigricans (dark crimson), dark red 
foliage and flowers; auriculaeflora (Auricula-eyed), white edge, 
coloured centre ; Harlequin, flowers individually of several colours, 
very striking ; the grandiflorus strain comprises many attractive 
shades of colour, and flore pleno is a distinct strain with double 
flowers. 

Chinese Pink. — Dianthus Chinensis, a Chinese kind, is really a 
biennial but more often treated as an annual, seeds being sown under 
glass in a heated greenhouse or frame in spring to produce flowering 
plants in July and August. From seed sown in a cold frame in August 
or September the plants will bloom in June. Plant outside towards 
the end of May in sunny positions, and rich, rather light garden soil. 
The numerous sorts grown in gardens are variously known as Chinese, 
Indian, and Japanese Pinks ; growing from 9 to 15 inches in height, 
they are very showy for beds and borders. There are varieties with 
single and double flowers. Seeds are sold in mixture or as follows : 
Heddewigii, a mixed strain ; Salmon Queen ; Scarlet Queen ; Single 
Pure White ; The Bride, white, rosy-purple eye ; Snowdrift, double 
white ; Fireball, double scarlet ; Laciniatus, fringed flowers in numer- 
ous colours. 

Carnation. — The parent of the Carnation is Dianthus Caryophyllus, 
a European species which is sometimes found wild in this country. 
Carnations thrive in well-dug garden soil ; if it is heavy, old mortar 
rubble should be mixed in when digging ; if light, add some turfy 



DIASCIA 153 

soil. October and March are the best times to plant Carnations. In 
damp, low-lying districts and in town gardens it is sometimes found 
necessary to pot the layers in autumn, keep them in a cold frame 
during winter, and plant in spring. Wherever possible, however, 
autumn planting is desirable, as the Carnation is a perfectly hardy 
plant. Layering is the best method of propagation, this being done 
as soon as the flowers are over. Cuttings are sometimes inserted in 
August in a cold frame or under a handlight on a sheltered border 
outside. Carnations are readily raised from seeds sown in shallow 
pans or boxes from March to May and placed in a cool greenhouse 
or cold frame ; they must be planted permanently in September or 
October, and will bloom the following year. The Marguerite Carna- 
tions are a quick-flowering race of perpetual blooming Carnations. 
From seed sown in a warm greenhouse during February, the plants 
will bloom from August to October. A strain called Vanguard has 
similar characteristics, and flowers in six months from seed sowing. 

Carnations are divided into several sections : Selfs have flowers 
of one colour ; Fancies, the groundwork of one colour is marked with 
another ; Bizarres, the ground colour is striped with two or three 
others ; Flakes, white, striped with purple, scarlet, or rose. For the 
border the Selfs, Fancies, and Yellow Ground Picotees are the best. 

Twenty of the best Border Carnations are : Basuto, crimson ; 
Bookham White ; Border Yellow ; Brigadier, scarlet ; Daffodil, 
yellow ; Duchess of Wellington, lavender ; Elizabeth Shiffner, straw 
colour ; Ellen Douglas, silvery-grey ; Fujiyama, red ; Furthest North, 
white ; Greyhound, heliotrope ; Innocence, blush pink ; Miss Will- 
mott, coral pink ; Mrs. George Marshall, crimson ; Mrs. Griffith Jones, 
apricot ; Mrs. Robert Gordon, pink ; Purple Emperor ; Rosy Morn, 
rose ; Mrs. Andrew Brotherstone, purple and white ; Mrs. J.J. Keen, 
yellow, edged rose ; and Montrose, white with scarlet markings. 

The Picotee is similar to the Carnation, but the ground colour of 
white or yellow is edged with red, purple, scarlet, or rose. 

Diascia. — The only Diascia is a half-hardy annual, from South 
Africa, belonging to the Snapdragon family (Scrophulariaceae) ; it is 
of slender growth, 9 to 12 inches high, and bears coral pink flowers 
freely in summer. Seeds may be sown outside in April where the 
plants are to flower, or in a cold frame during March, the seedlings 
being subsequently transplanted. Rather light soil is suitable, and 
a sunny spot should be chosen. 

Dicentra {Lyre Flower or Bleeding Heart).— Some nine or ten species 
of this group of the Fumitory family (Fumariaceae) find a place in 
botanic gardens, but only two are in general cultivation. Chief of 



154 THE BOOK OF HARDY ILCJWERS 

these is spcctabilis, perhaps more familiar as Dielytra spectabiHs, a 
native of China and Jaj)an, and known under tlic popular name of 
Bleeding Heart. It grows about 2 feet high, has elegant pinnate 
foliage, and during May and June bears graceful racemes of pink 
and white llowers. The plant starts into growth early in spring, and 
should be put in -a sheltered, partially-shaded border or on the west 
side of a fence ; it associates well with hardy ferns. Dicentra formosa, 
from North-Wcst America, has red or crimson llowers in May and 
early June. It grows only 6 to 9 inches high, and is useful fur the 
rock garden or for the front of the herbaceous border ; it needs 
shade during tlie hottest part of the day. The Diccntras prefer rather 
rich, light, well-drained soil. Previous to planting in September, work 
in plenty of leaf-mould and decayed manure. Increase is by division 
of tlie clumps in Se])tcniber. Tlie thick, lleshy roots should be pulled 
apart carefully with a hand-fork. 

Dicksonia. -Only one Dicksouia (member of the fern family, 
Filices) is hardy, and that is the North American kind, punctilobula. 
Tliis is a deciduous fern with creeping rhizomes and fragrant bipin- 
nate fronds, about 18 inches high. A shady i)c3sition and a soil of 
leaf-moidcl and pc>at are suitable. Increase is by division of roots or 
rhizomes in March. Dicksonia antarctica, an Australian 'I'ree Fern, 
grows out-of-doors in very warm nooks in the soutli-wost counties. 
In other parts of the country jilants in tubs or large pots are placed 
outside ill summer and returned to the cool greenhouse in autinnn. 

Dictamnus {Burning Jiush, ]''riixi)iflla).—'nicrc are several 
varieties of this hardy perennial, which belongs to the Kue family 
(Rutaceae), but tluy are all forms of Dictamnus albus (or jMaxinella, 
which is a commoner name in gardens). The plants grow 2 to 3 feet 
in height, flowering freely from June to August. The name l^urning 
Bush refers to a remarkable peculiarity of tlu> jilant. During hot 
sununer evenings the plants exude a volatile intlammable oil, and 
if a lighted match is apjilied it causes a bluish flame to envelop the 
plants. The chief varieties are : albus, jnn'e white, l£urope ; pur- 
})ureus (syn. Fraxinella), rc>ddish-pnr])le ; cancasicus, a strong-growing 
variety of the last-named with red-purple llowers, 4 feet high. The 
Fraxinellas thrive in light, rich, well-drained soil, and may be planted 
in sun or j>artial shade in Sei^lember, ()ctobc>r, and March. Increase 
is by seeds sown outside or in a cold frame when ripe, and by cuttings 
made of the thick, fleshy roots, preferably in March: 

Diervilla (Welgela) {Bnsh IIo)tcysncklt'). — A very useful group 
of hardy shrubs, belonging to the Honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae), 
for most of them bloom freely and the flowers are showy. They com- 





PINKS (DIANTHUS) IN A DRY 
STONK WALL 



THK CHEDDAR FINK (.DlANTHUS 
CAKSIUS) 





THK MAIDKN PINK (DIANTHUS 
DELTOIDES) 



BLUE ANNUAL LARKSPUR 
(DELPHINIUM) 



DIGITALIS 155 

prise a useful set of garden hybrids which for decorative planting are 
even better than the species or wild types. The latter are found in 
China, Japan, Siberia, and North America ; all thrive in any good 
garden soil, moderately rich loam being preferable when available. 
Cuttings of soft shoots inserted in sandy soil in warmth during May 
and June form a sure and rapid means of increase. The species and 
more vigorous garden varieties may be thinned out after flower- 
ing every second or third year, taking care not to cut the younger 
shoots ; but the weaker sorts and those that bloom most freely are 
benefited by the removal of a certain amount of the older wood each 
year as soon as flowering is over. The Diervillas or Weigelas are 
useful for planting in a bed, for isolated specimens, groups in shrub- 
beries, or for forcing. 

A selection of the best includes : floribunda, native of Japan, 
3 feet or so high : it provides a number of varieties in Lavallei, Lowei, 
and versicolor ; florida is a Chinese shrub, bearing reddish or rose- 
coloured flowers freely, the var. Candida has white flowers ; grandi- 
flora is a showy, free-flowering kind from Japan, growing 6 or 8 feet 
in height. 

Numerous hybrids have been raised between these species, and 
are known collectively as Diervilla hybrida. The following are all 
showy and useful : Abel Carriere, rich rose ; Eva Rathke, deep crim- 
son, blooms over a long season ; Conquete, deep rose ; Esperance, 
white, shaded rose ; Heroine, white, tinged rose ; Le Printemps, rose ; 
Mont Blanc, white. 

Diervilla japonica is a Japanese species of which the var. Hortensis 
has beautiful white flowers ; middendorfiana is a Siberian species with 
large sulphur-coloured blossoms, rather tender ; praecox is an early 
Japanese kind with deep rose flowers. 

Digitalis (Foxglove). — These are favourite old-fashioned garden 
plants for the flower and shrubbery borders, the wild garden, and for 
naturalising in half-shady nooks. They belong to the Snapdragon 
family (Scrophulariaceae). The plants thrive in ordinary soil, and 
though some of them flower a second time, the usual method is to 
treat them as biennials, sowing the seeds in April or May to produce 
flowering plants in June and July of the year following. However, 
self-sown seedlings come up in all sorts of places, and in the case of 
the Common Foxglove it is usually unnecessary to sow seeds. When 
sowing, scatter the seeds thinly where the plants are to flower, or sow 
in a border and transplant the seedlings in autumn. Digitalis purpurea 
(Common Foxglove), with purple, spotted flowers, grows 4 to 5 feet 
high, is native of Europe, and found wild in parts of Britain ; the 



156 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

var. alba has white, more or less spotted flowers ; var. gloxinioides 
(monstrosa) has one very large flower at the top of the spike of normal 
blooms. For garden borders an improved strain, called Giant Spotted 
or Spotted Hybrids, is recommended. Giant Primrose is a most 
beautiful Foxglove, with rich cream or buff flowers. Those who desire 
further kinds may sow seeds of ambigua, yellow, 3 feet, Europe ; 
ferruginea, pale yellow, veined with purple, 4 feet, Europe ; laevigata, 
bronzy-yellow, 3 feet. Eastern Europe ; lanata, purplish flowers, 
2 feet, Eastern Europe, and lutea, pale yellow, 3 feet, Europe. 

Dimorphotheca {Cape Marigold). — The kinds in cultivation are 
annuals : they belong to the Daisy family (Compositae). The Cape 
Marigolds must have warm, sunny positions in the garden, either 
on the rockery or a south border, and thrive best in light, well-drained 
loamy soil. Sow the seeds in April out-of-doors, where the plants are 
to flower. Dimorphotheca aurantiaca, the Orange Daisy, is a com- 
paratively recent introduction, and is now the most popular kind ; 
it is a South African annual, about 18 inches high, with orange-coloured 
flowers borne in profusion throughout the summer. The plants grow 
about I foot high, and commence flowering in seven or eight weeks 
from seed. For a small bed on the lawn this is one of the most useful 
and showy annuals. A strain with variously coloured flowers, obtained 
by crossing aurantiaca and pluvialis, is known as aurantiaca hybrida, 
and includes salmon, buff, apricot, yellow, primrose and white. Dimor- 
photheca Ecklonis has white flowers, shaded purple, it is from i^ to 
2 feet high ; pluvialis has white yellow-centred flowers, shaded blue 
outside, and grows from i foot to i| feet high. 

Oioscorea (Yam). — Climbing plants (Natural Order Dioscoreaceae) 
with annual stems and tubers which, in the countries where they grow, 
are cooked and used as here we use potatoes. The flowers are incon- 
spicuous, but in large gardens the elegant twining growths may be 
used to clothe arbours, verandas, and bare fences. The two best- 
known kinds are Batatus, from the Philippines, and Decaisneana, from 
China. The annual stems grow to a height of some 6 to 8 ft. Increase 
is by division of the tubers in spring before growth starts. 

Diospyros {Persimmon). — Two hardy trees, Diospyros Lotus from 
temperate Asia and virginiana from the United States, are included 
in this group (Natural Order Ebenaceae). Neither is very decorative, 
though both are interesting and rather rare trees. Diospyros virginiana 
is the Persimmon of North America, and is curious by reason of the 
thick bark of mature trees being divided into cubes. Both grow in 
ordinary garden soil, are increased from seeds, and require sufficient 
pruning when young to ensure shapely trees. The wood of the American 



DIPELTA 



157 



tree is valuable for the manufacture of shuttles, etc., whilst that of 
several tropical kinds is extremely valuable on account of its colouring 
and hardness. Diospyros Ebcnum, from South India and Ceylon, is 
the Ebony of commerce, and Kurzii is the celebrated Andaman Marble 
or Zebra Wood. Another, Diospyros Kaki, of Japan, produces a 
valuable fruit which is known as the Kaki of Japan, or the Chinese 
Date Plum ; there 
arc many cultiv- 
ated varieties, 
which are used in 
a fresh and dried 
state. Fruits have 
been ripened on 
walls in the South 
of England, and 
the tree is suitable 
for cultivation in a 
greenhouse, where 
a crop of fruit is 
far more certain 
than out-of-doors.. 
Dipelta. — This 
is a new class of 
shrubs from China, 
allied to the Dier- 
villa and belonging 
to the Honeysuckle 
family (Caprifolia- 
ceae). The flowers 
are similar in shape 
to those of Dier- 
villa (Bush Honey- 
suckle), but have 
several minor 
structural differences, the most conspicuous being the presence of two 
bracts at the base of each flower which continue to grow after the 
flower fades and remain until the seeds are ripe. The cultural re- 
quirements are similar to those recommended for Diervilla. The chief 
species are : elegans, a bush 3 to 4 feet high ; floribunda, found in 
Hupeh, growing from 10 to 15, but sometimes 40 feet high : the flowers 
are borne in clusters during May and June, and are rose-pink without 
and white and orange within ; ventricosa, a bush 6 to 15 feet high. 




158 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

bears clusters of flowers which are reddish-purple without and pale 
within ; Zunnenensis grows from 4 to 12 feet high and bears pale 
lilac flowers. 

Dipsacus (Teasel). — The Teasels (Natural Order Dipsaceae) are 
novel and interesting rather than showy flowering plants. They thrive 
in almost any soil, and though a plant or two may be included in 
the flower border, the best place for them is in the wild garden, shrub- 
bery border, and odd corners unsuitable for choice plants. The best 
known are Fullonum (Fuller's Teasel), with whitish flower-heads and 
pale purple anthers, July, 4 to 6 feet, Europe ; laciniatus, whitish 
flower-heads, red anthers, July, 3 to 5 feet, Siberia ; sylvestris (Common 
Teasel), pale lilac flower-heads, July, 6 feet, Europe, including Britain. 
The Teasels are best treated as biennials ; scatter the seeds in May 
where the plants are to flower the following summer. 

Disanthus cercidifolia is a rare shrub belonging to the Witch 
Hazel family (Hamamelidaceae). It is native of Japan, and forms 
a bush several feet high, with rounded or broadly heart-shaped leaves 
which turn to rich, vinous purple in autumn, a colour retained for 
several weeks. The flowers are small, but have not appeared freely 
in this country yet. It must be planted in a sheltered position in 
light, well-drained loam containing a little peat. Propagation is by 
imported seeds and layers, and no regular pruning is required. This 
shrub is well worth planting for the sake of its distinct autumn 
colouring ; few are more conspicuous. 

Discaria. — Three species of these curious shrubs (Natural Order 
Rhamnaceae) are sometimes grown in our gardens. They are : longi- 
spina, from Uruguay, serratifoHa, from Chili, and Toumatou (Wild 
Irishman), from New Zealand. All are intensely spiny bushes of 
somewhat rambling growth. The leaves are small and rather in- 
conspicuous, but the white flowers are borne freely. The Discarias 
are only suitable for the southern counties, where they may be grown 
in light loam in open borders or against a wall. Cuttings may be 
rooted, though propagation is usually by seeds. A little pruning is 
necessary now and then to keep the bushes within bounds. 

Dodder — {See Cuscuta.) 

Dodecatheon (American Cowslip, Shooting Stars). — Dainty dwarf 
perennials, members of the Primrose family (Primulaceae), natives 
of North America. The plants thrive best in a cool position, shaded 
from the mid-day sun, and like a compost of sandy loam, leaf-mould, 
and peat, together with an annual top-dressing of leaf-mould in March. 
The nodding flowers, which resemble those of Cyclamen, appear on 
a slender stem in early summer. If after three or four years the 




'« 












DORONICUM 159 

plants show signs of deteriorating, they should be lifted in February, 
and some fresh soil added before replanting. They are propagated 
by division of the roots in February, and by seeds sown on moist 
soil in a cold frame as soon as ripe. The species and varieties generally 
grown are : Clevelandii, violet-purple, 18 inches ; Hendersoni, crim- 
son-violet, 12 inches ; Jeffreyi, rosy-purple, large handsome leaves, 
18 inches ; Meadia (Common American Cowslip), rosy-purple, 12 inches. 
Good varieties of the last-named are album, white ; elegans, rich 
rosy-purple ; splendens, crimson with yellow ring ; and lilacinum, 
delicate lilac shade. 

Dog's Tooth Violet. — {See Erythronium.) 

Doronicum (Leopard's Bane). — Easily grown hardy herbaceous 
perennials (Natural Order Compositae), natives of Europe, flowering 
in spring and early summer ; the flowers are useful for cutting. There 
are few soils in which the Leopard's Bane will not thrive, and in full 
sun or shade the plants flower freely. Increase is by division, prefer- 
ably in September or October, also by seeds sown in a cold frame 
or outside in April or May. The chief kinds are : austriacum, golden- 
yellow, March to April, 12 to 18 inches ; caucasicum, bright yellow, 
March to Ma}'', 12 to 18 inches ; glaciale (syn. Clusii), rich yellow, 
ver^' free, March to June, i foot to 2 feet ; Pardalianches (Great 
Leopard's Bane), yellow, several flowers on a stem, April to June, 
i^ to 3 feet ; plantagineum, yellow, 2 to 3 feet, spring : the variety 
excelsum (syn. Harpur Crewe) has large golden-yellow blooms from 
April to July, and is very free flowering. This variety is the best 
of all and a splendid plant. 

Douglasia. — Alpine plants allied to the Androsace and belonging 
to the Primrose family (Primulaceae). The best-known species is 
vitaliana from the Pyrenees ; it is about 3 inches high and bears 
rich, yellow flowers from April to June. In some catalogues it appears 
as Androsace vitaliana. Douglasia laevigata is a dainty alpine of 
recent introduction, of dwarf, tufted habit, and with carmine flowers. 
The best position for these plants is a sunny place in the rock garden, 
and they need a well-drained calcareous soil, such as is provided by 
a limestone moraine. Seeds sown in a cold frame as soon as ripe, 
and di\asion in early spring, are the methods of propagation practised. 

Draba {Whitlow Grass). — Dwarf Alpines belonging to the Wall- 
flower family (Cruciferae), which thrive best in crevices between the 
stones in the rockery and on old walls ; they must have well-drained 
gritty soil, and a sunny position. They are hardy evergreen peren- 
nials, propagated by division in September or October and in spring 
by seeds, which should be scattered where the plants are to grow. 



i6o THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

The best species are : aizoides, yellow, March to April, 3 inches, 
Europe ; Aizoon, yellow, April to May, 3 inches, Europe ; bruniae- 
folia, yellow, March, 3 inches, Caucasus ; pyrenaica, rosy-lilac, April 
to May, 3 inches, Pyrenees ; stellata, white, June to July, 6 inches, 
northern and arctic regions. Draba pyrenaica (syn. Petrocallis 
pyrenaica) needs special care, and the moraine, which consists of 
stone chips and very little soil, seems the best place for it ; it must 
be protected from wet in winter by glass, though this must not be 
so arranged as to exclude fresh air. 

Dracocephalum {Dragon's Head). — Mostly hardy perennials, be- 
longing to the Sage family (Labiatae), but at least one annual is in 
cultivation. They produce showy spikes, the flowers being arranged in 
whorls. A sunny position and ordinary, well-drained garden soil are 
suitable. Increase of the perennial species is by seeds sown in a cool 
greenhouse or frame in spring or early summer, division of the roots 
in February and March, and by cuttings made of the young shoots 
during April and May ; these root readily under a bell-glass in a 
cool greenhouse or frame. Seeds of the annual kind, Dracocephalum 
Moldavica, should be sown in April where the plants are to flower. 
The best kinds are : austriacum, blue, July to September, i| feet, 
Europe, etc ; Moldavica, violet, July to September, i foot, Siberia ; 
nutans (alpinum), blue, July to September, i foot, Eastern Russia; 
Ruprechtii, rosy-purple, July to August, 9 to 12 inches, Turkestan ; 
Ruyschianum, blue, July to September, 18 inches, Europe, etc. ; the 
var. Japonicum is blue and white, i| to 2 feet. Dracocephalum 
virginicum is synonymous with Physostegia virginiana {which see). 

Drimys. — This is a group of shrubs belonging to the Magnolia 
family (Magnoliaceae), of which two species, aromatica from Tasmania 
and Victoria, and Winteri from South America, form handsome ever- 
green bushes in the milder southern counties. The former grows into 
a dense shrub 8 or 10 feet high, bearing rather small leaves and white 
flowers, and the latter is from 12 to 15 feet high, with conspicuous 
oblong leaves up to 6 inches long, and bearing large loose heads of 
pale yellowish blossoms. Drimys Winteri is also of value (more 
especially in the Magellanic region), bj^ reason of its bark, which has 
medicinal properties. It is used as a tonic. Plant in ordinary garden 
soil in the warmer counties, increase by seeds, and prune in summer 
merely to keep the bushes shapely. Except in mild districts they 
must be grown as greenhouse plants. 

Dryas {Mountain Avens). — Dwarf evergreen alpine plants for the 
rockery. They belong to the Rose family (Rosaceae). Thej^ should 
be planted in well-drained soil containing a little peat with plenty 



ECCREMOCARPUS SCABER i6i 

of broken stone mixed in and placed on the surface ; slight shade is 
beneficial. Propagation is by division in autumn or spring, the former 
for preference, which is also the best time for replanting. Seeds are 
sown in a cold frame from April to June, while cuttings may be in- 
serted in pots of sandy soil in a frame during summer or early autumn. 
Dry as Drummondii, an evergreen trailer, bears golden-yellow blooms 
in summer, 4 to 6 inches, North America ; octopetala has white 
flowers with golden-yellow stamens, May to July, 4 to 6 inches, Europe, 
including Britain. 

Eccremocarpus scaber. — This is a handsome climbing plant 
of sub-shrubby habit, belonging to the Bignonia family (Bignoniaceae). 
It should be grown in a sheltered corner against a wall or trellis, and 
its branches be cut back quite half-way, or even to the ground hne, 
each winter or spring, but it may also be treated as an annual or 
biennial with good results, and this is the most satisfactory method 
for the colder parts of the country. Seeds are sown under glass in 
sandy soil during autumn or spring, and the young plants grown 
in a compost of 3 parts loam to i part leaf-mould with a little sand, 
ready for planting out in May. The larger the plants are at that time 
the better will be the results. If they are left out-of-doors through 
the winter it is a good plan to place a small heap of cinders over their 
base to give a little protection. This climber is a native of Chili, and 
the scarlet and orange flowers are very showy and freely produced in 
late summer. 

Echeveria. — {See Cotyledon.) 

Echinacea {Purple Cone Flower). — This is a showy, hardy peren- 
nial, closely allied to the Rudbeckia, with which it is sometimes in- 
cluded ; it belongs to the Daisy family (Compositae). The branching 
flower stems, which are stout and erect, reach a height of 3 to 4 feet, 
and bear star-like flowers, 4 inches across, of reddish-purple colour, 
with a black, cone-like disc. It is first-rate for cutting, as the flowers 
last a long time in water. The Echinacea, which is a native of North 
America, is readily increased by division, and will grow in any ordinary 
garden soil. 

Echinops {Globe Thistle). — The Globe Thistles are an ornamental 
and distinct class of hardy herbaceous perennials, natives chiefly of 
Mediterranean districts, and belonging to the Daisy family (Com- 
positae). The branching stems, which are from 3 to 6 feet high, 
are terminated by a globose head of Thistle-like blossoms of some 
shade of blue. The best are : bannaticus, deep blue ; humilis, a dwarf 
species with bright blue flowers ; Ritro, rich blue ; and sphaeroce- 
phalus, with silvery foliage and pale, steely blue flowers. They thrive 



i62 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

in ordinary soil, and can be increased by division, seeds, or root cut- 
tings ; the latter should be taken in winter, cut up into lengths of 
about 4 inches, and dibbled in a bed of sandy soil in the open ground. 
Owing to their bold appearance and indifference as to soil, the Globe 
Thistles are fit subjects for the wild garden. 

Echium (Bugloss). — A near relative of the Borage (Natural Order 
Boraginaceae), and, like that plant, having flowers chiefly of some 
shade of blue. The different kinds will grow in ordinary garden soil, 
and bear their attractive flowers from June to August. They are 
readily increased by division in autumn, or in some cases by seeds, 
which may be sown in the open border in spring. The chief sorts are : 
plantagineum, a biennial with flowers of rich purplish-blue, this 
must be raised from seed each summer ; Thomsonii, bright carmine ; 
and vulgare, with pretty blue and white flowers. All reach a height 
of 2 to 3 feet. 

Edelweiss. — (See Leontopodium.) 

Edgeworthia chrysantha is a Chinese and Japanese shrub 
belonging to the Natural Order Thymelaceae. It may be grown 
out-of-doors in the milder parts of the country, where its small, yellow- 
ish. Daphne-like flowers are produced in April or May. Elsewhere the 
protection of a cool greenhouse is necessary. Seeds are usually used 
for propagation, and it thrives in loamy soil or in loam containing 
leaf-mould or peat. No regular pruning is necessary ; simply shorten 
long branches to induce the basal buds to break into growth freely. 
From the bark of an allied species, Edgeworthia Gardner!, a fine kind 
of paper is manufactured in Nepal. 

Edraianthus. — (See Wahlenbergia.) 

Elaeagnus. — Ornamental evergreen and deciduous species of 
trees and shrubs (Natural Order Elaeagnaceae), most of which are 
suitable for outdoor cultivation in the British Isles. They are natives 
of the Mediterranean region, the Orient, China, Japan, and North 
America. The flowers of most kinds are white or cream and fragrant. 
In some cases they are followed by showy fruits, but their foliage is 
the chief attraction. They may be used for shrubberies, specimen 
bushes or groups, whilst they are available for all except the most 
exposed parts of the country. In some instances the foliage is green ; 
in others, silver ; whilst some have prettily variegated leaves. Good 
loamy soil meets their requirements ; it must, however, be well 
drained. It is usual to increase the species by seeds and the varieties 
by cuttings inserted in sandy soil in a frame in July. Pruning is 
restricted to keeping the bushes shapely, and the removal of green- 
leaved shoots from variegated kinds. This may be done in summer. 



ELLIOTTIA RACEMOSA 163 

The chief sorts are : pungens, a Chinese and Japanese shrub, 
growing 12 or 15 feet high, with evergreen leaves ; the varieties aurea, 
aureo-picta, and Simoni have handsome golden variegated leaves ; 
angustifolia, of the Mediterranean region and the Orient, forms a 
small tree with narrow, silvery, deciduous leaves ; argentea is a 
silver-leaved kind from North America — it bears silver-coloured berries; 
macrophylla, a handsome evergreen, with greyish green leaves, native 
of Japan and Formosa, flowers during late autumn ; multiflora is a 
deciduous kind from China and Japan, which bears a large number 
of fragrant flowers in May, followed by showy fruits later ; it is some- 
times called longipes. 

Elliottia racemosa is one of the rarest shrubs in cultivation ; it 
belongs to the Heather family (Ericaceae). It has seldom been found 
in a state of nature, and few examples have been introduced to Europe. 
There is also a difiiculty in procuring seeds, whilst it apparently defies 
propagation by other methods. It is a deciduous, upright-growing 
bush from Georgia, growing at least 6 feet high, with handsome terminal 
panicles of showy, waxy white flowers, which open in July. A fine 
example is to be seen in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, where 
it occupies a position amongst a bed of Heaths, the light loam con- 
taining a little peat in which the Heaths are at home, being apparently 
equally suitable for the Elliottia.- 

Elm. — {See Ulmus.) 

Elsholtzia Stauntoni is a sub-shrub from China, belonging to 
the Natural Order Labiatae. Of recent introduction, it is still a rare 
plant, but its free-flowering qualities and late blossoming season are 
bound to make it popular in the near future. Growing from 4 to 6 feet 
high, it looks more like a herbaceous plant than a shrub, although 
the lower parts of the branches are persistent. The ovate leaves are 
up to 6 inches long and fragrant, and the reddish or deep pink flowers 
are borne in very large terminal inflorescences in September. It may 
be used in the shrubbery or herbaceous border, and must be planted 
in good, deep loamy soil. Cut the branches well back after flowering. 

Elymus {Lyme Grass). — A fairly extensive group of Grasses 
(Naturcd Order Gramineae), none of which, however, is of any par- 
ticular garden value except Elymus glaucifolius, with leaves of grey- 
blue tint. This is desirable for waterside planting, and in such con- 
ditions flourishes. A second species, Elymus arenarius, though but 
a weed, is of value from the fact that, growing on the seaside as it 
does, it tends to bind the shifting sands together ; it progresses rapidly 
by means of long spreading underground rhizomes, so that it forms 
a living mat which prevents the sand being washed away. 



i64 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Embothrium coccineum. — A remarkably handsome large shrub 
or small tree, belonging to the Natural Order Proteaceae, and native 
of South America ; it is hardy only in particularly favoured parts of 
Great Britain. In parts of Devon and Cornwall it forms quite a 
striking feature during its flowering period, which is early summer. 
Proximity to the sea seems to be particularly conducive to its welfare. 
This Embothrium forms a much-branched specimen clothed with 
Willow-like leaves, while the flowers, which are borne towards the 
ends of the shoots, are of somewhat similar shape to those of a Honey- 
suckle and of an orange-scarlet colour. A soil of sandy loam, with a 
little peat intermixed, is suitable. It is increased by seeds, which 
should be sown as soon as ripe in a mixture of loam, peat, and sand, 
and placed in the greenhouse. Providing it is in an open space, this 
shrub needs no pruning. 

Emilia coccinea {Tassel Flower). — This showy annual is generally 
met with in nurserymen's lists as Cacalia coccinea. It belongs to the 
Daisy family (Compositae), and is native of India. If sown out-of- 
doors during spring it flowers throughout the summer. The plant 
reaches a height of about i8 inches, and the flowers, which are 
in clusters like a bunch of tassels, are of orange-scarlet colour. It is 
a very distinct annual. 

Empetrum nigrum. — This is a prostrate-growing shrub (Natural 
Order Empetraceae), with small, dark evergreen leaves, and is widely 
distributed through the colder regions of the Northern Hemisphere. 
It is common in many parts of the Highlands of Scotland, where it 
is often found on rocky, mountainous land in exposed places. As it 
forms a dense, carpet-like mass it is useful for planting on dry banks 
or in rock gardens. The light-coloured flowers in May arc followed 
by showy, though small, bright black fruits at a later date. Pro- 
pagation is by seeds ; plant in light soil. Pruning is unnecessary. 

Enkianthus is a showy group of hardy or half-hardy deciduous 
shrubs, belonging to the Heather family (Ericaceae), and native of 
the Himalaya, China, and Japan. Like most other plants in the 
same order, they need moist soil which is fairly free from lime, and 
preferably containing peat. The flowers appear in May or June, 
usually with the young leaves, and they are white or sometimes reddish 
in colour. They should be given a sheltered position, where they are 
not affected by cold winds, for though perfectly hardy so far as winter 
cold is concerned, the young shoots are easily injured in spring. Pro- 
pagation is by seeds and cuttings, and no pruning is necessary other 
than that given by " stopping " the shoots of young plants to induce 
a bushy shape. The chief kinds are : campanulatus, a Japanese 




ONE OF THE MANY VARIETIES OF PERENNIAL LARKSPUR 

(DELPHINIUM) 



EOMECON CHIONANTHA 165 

shrub, bearing red flowers in May ; cernuus, from Japan, having 
reddish blossoms ; himalaicus, native of the Himalaya and China, 
conspicuous by reason of its showy flowers, which, though usually 
yellowish, are sometimes red ; japonicus and quinqueflorus have, 
usually, white flowers, though those of some forms of the last-named 
are rose. 

Eomecon chionantha {Chinese Poppy Wort). — A pretty little 
member of the Poppy family (Papaveraceae), native of China, and 
seen at its best in a moist and partially shaded spot. It reaches a 
height of 12 inches or rather more, and has comparatively large 
heart-shaped leaves. The flowers, which open early in summer, are 
2 inches or so in diameter, pure white, and very suggestive of those 
of a Poppy. It is an uncommon plant, and one that it is useless 
to attempt to grow in a hot, dry soil. Increase is mainly by division, 
which should be carried out just before growth recommences in spring ; 
this must be done very carefully, otherwise failure will result. 

Ephedra. — ^This group of shrubs, though possessing considerable 
scientific interest as being the connecting link between Conifers and 
other kinds of plants, is not of any great horticultural value. The 
Natural Order is Cynetaceae. The species are natives of North and 
South America, Europe, and Asia, and form dense masses of green 
Rush-like shoots sometimes 2 or 3 feet, at others less than i foot, high. 
They thrive in light soil on rocky ground, may be increased by seeds 
or division, and do not require regular pruning. 

Epigaea repens {May Flower). — This charming little shrub 
belongs to North America, and is a member of the Heather family 
(Ericaceae). It creeps along the ground, and spreads by means of 
shoots from the root-stock. The dark green oval leaves are thick 
and persist throughout the winter, and the fragrant, white, rose- 
tinted flowers appear in clusters about the points of the shoots in 
April and May. It requires light peaty soil which is always moist, 
and must be in partial shade, bright sun soon proving fatal. Usually 
grown in the rock garden. Propagation is by division of the clumps 
or by seeds. Pruning is not required. 

Epilobium {Willow Herb). — An extensive group of plants, be- 
longing to the Evening Primrose family (Onagraceae), and found 
wild in various parts of the world. Many of them are troublesome 
weeds in this and other countries, while on the other hand the Rose 
Bay (angustifolium) is exceedingly ornamental, and of great value for 
the waterside or wild garden ; it grows about 4 feet high, and in June 
and July bears long terminal spikes of bright rosy-purple blossoms ; 
there is a white varietv. Another desirable sort is Dodonoei, which 



i66 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

grows about 12 inches high and bears pretty, bright rose-coloured 
flowers from June to August ; it is a good rock garden plant for a 
sunny spot, and will stand drought well ; hirsutum, a British plant, 
known in some districts as Codlins and Cream, grows over 3 feet 
high, and has pale pink flowers in July ; it is essentially a plant for 
the wild garden, especially in moist spots. Hectorii is a tiny creep- 
ing plant from New Zealand with white flowers in summer ; it is 
used in the rock garden, as also is the Californian kind, obcordatum, 
which is of creeping growth, and has showy rose-coloured flowers 
throughout summer. The last to mention is sericeum, which grows 
3 or 4 feet high. The flowers are rose-coloured and are produced for 
a long time ; it is fit only for the wild garden and waterside. All these 
Epilobiums are readily increased by division, which is best carried 
out in autumn. 

Epimedium (Barren Wort). — A very pretty race of spring and 
early summer flowering plants of herbaceous character, belonging 
to the Barberry family (Berberidaceae) ; they are natives of Europe 
and temperate Asia. They grow about 12 inches high, and the leaves, 
which are on twiggy stems, are of firm, leathery texture. In autumn 
the leaves of most kinds assume beautiful tints, and often persist 
until well on in winter. These plants need a fairly moist, partially 
shaded spot, and a soil chiefly of sandy peat. The flowers, which 
are in loose panicles, are of various shades of white, yellow, and red. 
All are increased by division, which may be carried out in August 
and September or in early spring. The best are : alpinum, crimson 
and yellow ; macranthum, white ; macranthum violaceum, purplish ; 
Musschianum, white ; Musschianum rubrum, red ; Perralderianum, 
sulphur-yellow ; pinnatum, deep yellow ; rubrum, red ; and versi- 
color, red and yellow. The sprays of beautifully tinted leaves are 
extremely useful in a cut state during autumn and early winter. 
In water they remain fresh and bright for a long time. 

Epipactis {Hellehorine). — A small group of terrestrial Orchids 
(Natural Order Orchidaceae), natives of the temperate regions of 
both hemispheres, and quite hardy in this country. They thrive in 
a compost of loam, peat, and sand in a moist, shady spot. The best 
are alba, with long racemes of white flowers ; gigantea, flowers dark 
brown and purple ; latifolia, greenish-purple ; and palustris, whitish, 
tinged with red. These Orchids reach a height of from i to 2 feet 
and flower in summer. They are all increased by division in late 
summer. 

Equieetum [Horsetail). — A strange class of leafless herbs (Natural 
Order Equisetaceae) with creeping perennial rootstock, and erect. 





GLOBE THISTLE (ECHINOPS 
RITRO) 



KING'S SPEAR (EREMURUS 
ROBUSTUS) 





PLANTAIN LILY (FUNKIA) 



A PERUVIAN FLOWERING SHRUB 
(FABIANA IMBRICATA) 



ERAGROSTIS 167 

Rush-like, hollow, and jointed stems ; the secondary branches are 
disposed in regular whorls. Most of them are troublesome weeds, 
but some are useful for planting in moist spots, such as in boggy 
places or at the edge of the water. The best are : maximum, which 
in muddy places will reach a height of 6 feet, and sylvaticum, the 
most graceful of all ; this will thrive in the wild garden under drier 
conditions than the preceding, but still it needs a good deal of moisture. 
On no account should it be introduced into cultivated ground, as it 
is a most pernicious weed. 

Eragrostis {Love Grass), — Some very pretty grasses, both annual 
and perennial, are included among the various Eragrostis (Natural 
Order Gramineae). Those most generally grown for garden purposes 
are the annual kinds, elegans and maxima. The inflorescences of both 
are light and graceful, and if cut before they are too ripe and hung 
up to dry, they are useful for winter decoration. Eragrostis elegans 
reaches a height of about i8 inches, while the other is taller. Seeds 
of both may be sown out-of-doors in spring, and the flower-heads 
will develop in the course of the summer. They grow readily in 
ordinary garden soil. 

Eranthis hyemalis {Wititer Aconite). — A delightful flower of 
early spring ; though the period of blooming varies somewhat with 
the season it is often in flower by January, while sometimes not over 
until March. It belongs to the Buttercup family (Ranunculaceae), 
is native of various parts of Europe, and a very old inhabitant of our 
gardens. The large Buttercup-like yellow flowers are encircled by 
a frill of green leaves, and the whole plant is not more than about 
4 inches high when in bloom. It succeeds in ordinary garden soil, 
and whetlier as an edging to the flower border or grouped in the rock 
garden or under deciduous shrubs, it is equally appreciated, as prac- 
tically the first of the New Year's flowers. It may also be planted 
in short grass. The small and curious 
tubers (roots) of the Winter Aconite 
may be bought cheaply, and should be 
planted in July and August or early 
September at the latest. A second 
kind, cilicicus, is in cultivation, but it 
is not common. The flowers of this are 
deeper in colour and later than those of 
the common Winter Aconite. 

Ercilla volubllls. — The chief in- 
terest attached to this plant (Natural 

.. . . . THE WINTER ACONITE 

Order Phytolaccaceae) lies in its being (Eranthis hyemuUs) 




i68 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

an evergreen, self-clinging, climbing plant. It is a native of Chili and 
Peru, and can only be considered hardy in the milder parts of the 
country, although it may be grown against a wall in many places. 
It has bright green oblong leaves and small spikes of brownish 
Hewers. The long trailing shoots produce aerial roots after the 
manner of the Ivy. Propagation may be carried out in summer by 
means of cuttings inserted in sandy soil in a frame. Any good garden 
soil suits its requirements, and pruning may be carried out in spring, 
all surplus growth then being cut back to within a bud or two of 
the main shoots. This climber is known also as Bridgesia spicata. 

Eremurus {Giant Asphodel). — The Eremuri are among the most 
stately of herbaceous perennials ; they belong to the Lily family 
(Liliaceae), and are natives chiefly of Central Asia. The leaves are 
long and strap-shaped, and from the centre of the tuft the flower 
spike arises. It is erect, as straight as a gun barrel, and in some 
kinds from 8 to lo feet in height. The upper half of the stem con- 
sists of a cylindrical spike of blossoms, which continue to unfold as 
the stem lengthens, the flowers are closely packed together, and a 
succession is kept up for some time during May, June, and July. 
The roots of the Eremuri are no less remarkable than the flowers, 
particularly those of Eremurus robustus and its varieties ; the stout, 
fieshy roots radiate from the central crown like the spokes of a wheel, 
of which the crown itself forms the hub. As the roots are brittle 
and extend in a horizontal direction, it is evident that special care 
is needed in planting ; the leaves appear early in spring, so a sheltered 
spot should be chosen for planting. Well-drained loam meets their 
requirements, they will not thrive in cold, heavy soil ; some well 
decayed manure may with advantage be mixed with the original soil. 
Planting is best carried out in the autumn, and as the Eremuri are 
none too hardy, a slight covering of decayed leaves should be given, 
at all events during the first winter. The roots are put about 6 inches 
below the surface, and the hole prepared must be sufficiently wide 
to allow of the roots being spread out in a natural manner. Eremuri 
are increased by means of seeds, which ripen freely if the flowers are 
artificially fertilised. The seeds are sown as soon as ripe, and pro- 
tected by a frame until they are large enough to plant out. The 
smaller kinds, such as Eremurus Bungei, produce offsets much 
more freely than the others. When planted in a bed or clump, 
Eremuri are seen to the best advantage against a background of 
shrubs, or a few plants look especially well in a large rock garden. If 
planted in a group the stronger growing kinds ought to be put from 
5 to 6 feet apart. 



ERIANTHUS 169 

The best-known kinds are : Bungei, from 4 to 6 feet in height, 
with clear, yellow flowers ; Himalaicus, white, 6 to 8 feet ; Himrob, 
pale pink, 8 feet ; Olgae, somewhat similar to Bungei, with white 
red-tinted flowers ; robustus, the giant of the group, with rosy-pink- 
coloured flowers, 10 feet ; robustus Elwesianus, flowers deeper colour ; 
and Warei, 6 to 8 feet, with reddish -bronze flowers; 

Erianthus. — A small group of Grasses (Natural Order Gramineae), 
natives of different parts of the globe. The only species in general 
cultivation is Erianthus Ravennae, an ornamental perennial kind, 
with showy purplish plumes, seen to the best advantage during a hot 
summer. It will thrive in ordinary>soil, but as warm a spot as possible 
should be chosen for it ; the flower stem will reach a height of 6 feet. 

Erica (Heath). — This is a very important group (Natural Order 
Ericaceae), inasmuch as it includes all the plants, hardy and tender, 
which are known under the popular name of Heath. Other plants 
are sometimes called Heaths, though this name is correctly apphed 
to Erica only. The Ericas are found in two widely separate regions, 
Europe and South Africa. Those from South Africa are generally 
too tender for outdoor cultivation in the British Isles, though a few 
of the hardier kinds have been planted with success in Cornwall. 
About the middle of last century they were amongst the most popular 
of greenhouse plants, many varieties being grown, and the successful 
management of a collection was considered to be the supreme test 
of a gardener's skill. Now few sorts are grown, and their cultivation 
is usually in the hands of a few commercial firms, who grow the plants 
to flowering size and then place them on the market. As a rule, 
they are destroyed after flowering, although by care they may be 
kept for years. 

With the European sorts it is quite different, for they have never 
been more popular than at present. Although all are not hardy 
throughout the British Isles, those from the more northerly regions 
are, whilst the southern sorts are appropriate for all the milder counties. 
Several species are natives of the British Isles. 

Cultivation of the hardy kinds offers no serious difficulties, providing 
lime is not present in the soil to any serious extent. Even then one 
or two kinds may be grown. They thrive in both peat and loam, 
and give excellent results in sandy soil in which a little peat or leaf- 
mould has been dug. In preparing ground for Heaths, remove the 
turf or coarse weeds, then dig it over, aftervi^ards forking leaf-mould 
or peat into the upper few inches. Plant in autumn or early spring, 
and be careful to water when necessary and keep the ground free from 
weeds until the plants can look after themselves. 



170 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Propagation may be effected by means of seeds, layers, or cuttings. 
Perhaps the last-named method is the best. Cuttings must be taken 
during July or August and dibbled into pots of sandy peat made 
very firm, each pot then being placed under a bell-glass or handlight 
until the cuttings are rooted. They are then planted in a reserve 
border, and the points of the shoots must be removed frequently 
to induce a bushy habit. Pruning in after-life is restricted to 
cutting back the flower-bearing shoots as soon as the blossoms 
are over. 

The tender kinds are also increased by cuttings, but they are grown 
in pots in a greenhouse throughout the greater part of the year. They 
are, however, usually plunged out-of-doors from the end of June to 
the end of August. The best results are obtained when they are placed 
in a light and airy house, on a stage covered with ashes. No artificial 
heat should be given until the temperature is likely to fall below 
35'* F. Careful watering, thorough drainage, and firm potting in 
sandy peat are essential to success. 

A good selection of hardy kinds includes : arborea, Tree Heath, 
native of the Mediterranean region, etc., grows 6 to 20 feet high and 
bears white fragrant flowers from March to May, heirdy in the milder 
counties — the var. alpina has brighter green leaves, and is of more 
upright growth ; australis, from Portugal, is another kind from the 
milder counties, it grows from 4 to 6 feet high, is of straggling habit, 
and bears large red flowers freely from March to May ; carnea is a 
very hardy kind from the European Alps, growing 6 to 9 inches high, 
it bears reddish flowers from early February to May — the var. alba 
has white flowers ; ciliaris is a creeping species which is found wild 
in the south-west counties of England, its red flowers are borne in 
summer : Maweana is a denser growing variety, 6 to 9 inches high, 
and one of the best of the late summer-flowering sorts. 

Erica cinerea, the Common Heather of our commons and hill-sides, 
is a well-known decorative shrub of dwarf habit. Alba, white ; atro- 
purpurea, purple ; atrosanguinea, rich red ; coccinea, scarlet ; and 
rosea, rose, are all excellent varieties. Lusitanica, often called codo- 
nodes, is largely grown in the South of England ; its plumose branches, 
clothed with bright green leaves, are often 4 to 8 feet high, the white 
flowers commence to open in November, and flowers may still be found 
at the end of April. Mediterranea, a handsome kind from South- West 
Europe, forms a bush 4 to 12 feet high ; it may be grown from the 
Midlands southwards and bears reddish flowers from February to 
May ; alba, white ; hibernica, a variety found in Ireland, and nana, 
of dwarf habit, are useful varieties ; one called hybrida is a cross 



ERIGERON 171 

between mediterranea and carnea : it grows 12 to 15 inches high, and 
blooms continuously from November to May. 

Erica stricta is a Heath of stiff growth from South Europe, the 
red flowers open in July ; vagans, the Cornish Heath, is a very useful 
autumn-flowering sort : there are forms with red, white, and pink 
blooms ; Veitchii, a hybrid between arborea and lusitanica, bears 
its white flowers with great freedom in spring. 

Among the chief greenhouse kinds are : caffra, an easily grown 
white-flowered kind from South Africa ; Cavendishiana, a yellow- 
flowered hybrid with long, handsome, wax-like flowers ; gracilis, a 
handsome dwarf, autumn-flowering species with reddish flowers ; 
hyemalis, a popular spring- flowering kind, with long, tubular, red 
and white blossoms ; and melanthera, a vigorous white-flowered 
Heath from South Africa. 

Erigeron {Flea Bane). — Aster-like plants (Natural Order Com- 
positae), natives largely of North America, though some occur in 
the temperate regions of the Eastern Hemisphere. They will grow 
in ordinary garden soil, and may be readily increased by means of 
division in autumn, or by seeds sown in spring. The best are : alpinus, 
purplish blue, June and July, 9 inches ; aurantiacus, bright orange, 
all summer, 6 inches ; Coulterii, white, June to August, 12 inches ; 
glabellus, violet, summer, 9 inches ; glaucus, purple, June to August, 
12 inches ; grandiflorus, lavender, summer, 18 inches ; mucronatus, 
white, all the summer, 4 inches ; philadelphicus, rose, from spring until 
autumn, 2 feet, and speciosus, with its varieties. The typical Erigeron 
speciosus, which reaches a height of 2 feet, bears a profusion of deep 
mauve, Daisy-like flowers for several weeks in summer. There are 
some distinct forms of this species, namely : Asa Gray, apricot buff ; 
Edina, white ; and Quakeress, lavender-blue. They are among the 
most useful of hardy border plants, and the flowers are valuable for 
cutting. After the earlier blooms are cut, secondary ones soon appear. 

Erinacea pungens is a charming little plant for the rockery. 
It belongs to the Pea family (Leguminosae), and is a native of the 
Eastern Pyrenees and North- West Africa, Of tufted habit, it rises 
but a few inches above the ground and grows slowly, the branches 
having the peculiar rigid, stunted appearance common to many 
plants which occupy stony, arid regions. The Pea-shaped flowers 
are violet or bluish in colour and very attractive. In addition to 
being useful for the rock garden, it may be planted on dry, sunny 
banks. Propagation is by seeds, cuttings, or layers ; loamy soil is 
suitable, and pruning is unnecessary. 

Erinus alpinus. — An attractive rock garden plant, and equally 



172 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

desirable for wall gardening. It belongs to the Snapdragon family 
(Scrophulariaceae), and is native of the mountains of Western Europe. 
In narrow crevices and among the rocks it will grow and flower freely 
in light soil from April to June, soon forming a fair-sized plant. It 
may be increased by division, or, better still, by sowing seeds as 
soon as ripe where the plants are to grow. The plant itself is about 
4 inches high, and the flowers are rosy-purple. There are two 
distinct varieties : albus, white, and carmineus, bright carmine. 

Eriobotrya japonica {Loquat). — This shrub belongs to the Rose 
family (Rosaceae), is native of China and Japan, and is closely allied 
to the Medlar. It is, however, abundantly distinct both by its large, 
handsome, persistent leaves and by its clusters of golden fruits. In 
the mildest parts of the country it succeeds in sheltered places and 
against walls out-of-doors, and the white hawthorn-scented flowers 
are often borne late in the year. Fruits are, however, rarely developed 
here, though they are common and used for dessert in the South of 
France. However, the greyish oblong leaves, which are up to 12 inches 
long on vigorous plants, make it of sufficient importance for decorative 
gardening. Plant in loamy soil, increase by means of seeds, and prune 
in spring, but only when the plants are outgrowing their positions. 
Eriogonum. — Although this is an extensive group of plants, 
few are in general cultivation. They belong to the Natural Order 
Polygonaceae, and are native of North America. The best and prac- 
tically the only one that can be obtained from nurseries is Eriogonum 
umbellatum, a pretty little rock plant that forms tufts about 9 inches 
high, and bears small umbels of bright yellow flowers during summer. 
It prefers a well-drained, sunny spot and peaty soil, and can be 
readily increased by division. 

Eriophorum {Cotton Grass).— Grass-hke plants of the Sedge 
family (Cyperaceae), several of which are natives of Britain. The 
most desirable is angustifolum, about 2 feet high, bearing tufts of 
cottony white flower-heads. It is suitable for planting by the water's 
edge. 

Eritrichfum The chief plant of this genus, which belongs to 

the Borage family (Boraginaceae), is Eritrichium nanum, a lovely 
miniature alpine plant that is very difficult to grow, and sometimes 
referred to as the Glory of the Alps. It is a tiny Forget-me-not -hke 
plant, about 3 inches high ; the blossoms are of brilliant sky blue 
with yellow centre, and open in early summer. In the Swiss Alps 
where it grows wild, it lives in rocky crevices, and during winter is 
covered with deep snow. In our rock gardens it is most likely to 
succeed in the moraine, in stone chips mixed with a little sandy loam, 




Q 

CO 



ERODIUM 173 

and when supplied with moisture from below. It needs to be sheltered 
by glass in winter to keep off heavy rains, though air must not be 
excluded. No one manages to keep it alive for very long. 

Erodium (Heron's Bill). — These, which belong to the Geranium 
family (Geraniaceae), may be looked upon as dwarf forms of the 
hardy Geraniums, though most of them have markedly pinnate leaves. 
They are natives principally of the Mediterranean region, and thrive 
best on dry, sunny parts of rockwork, where they will bloom almost 
continuously throughout late spring and in summer. They are readily 
increased by seeds in spring or by division in September, and sandy 
loam suits them best. The most desirable are : alpinum, purple, 
12 inches ; chrysanthum, yellowish, 6 inches ; guttatum, white, 
6 inches ; hymenoides, white, lower petals lined purple, 12 inches 
or more ; macradenum, white, marked with violet, 6 inches ; Mane- 
scavi, reddish-rose, 18 inches ; Reichardii, white, veined pink, 2 inches ; 
and Sibthorpii, pale lilac, 2 inches. 

Eryngium {Sea Holly). — A striking group of summer-flowering, 
hardy, herbaceous perennials, belonging to the Natural Order Umbelli- 
ferae, natives principally of Mediterranean districts and South 
America. In general appearance they are somewhat Thistle-like, and 
are remarkable for the more or less blue tone of the foliage and flower 
heads. If cut when at their best and dried the flowers retain their 
colour for a long time. Eryngiums thrive in ordinary garden soil, 
and should be planted in full sunshine, as this tends to bring out 
the metallic blue lustre. They are readily increased by division in 
autumn. The most striking are : alpinum, flower-heads and leaves 
metallic blue, 3 feet ; amethystinum, delightful amethyst blue ; Bour- 
gatii, 18 inches ; giganteum, silvery white stems and flower-heads ; 
Oliverianum, one of the finest coloured of all ; pandanaefolium, a tall 
grower, suitable for the wild garden ; planum, the blue flower-heads 
of which are small and exceedingly numerous ; and Zabelii, a finely 
coloured kind. Most of those of which the height is not given are 
from 3 to 4 feet. 

Erysimum (Fairy Wallflower). — These plants are nearly related 
to the Wallflowers, to which some of the species bear a great resem- 
blance. They belong to the same family (Cruciferae). There are 
both annual and perennial species, all easily grown, and usually raised 
from seed sown in autumn or spring. Of the annuals two are very 
showy : arkansanum, with bright yellow blossoms, like small Wall- 
flowers ; and Perofskianum, in which they are rich orange. Both 
these are among the most accommodating of hardy annuals, and if 
sown in autumn will survive the winter and flower in spring ; those 



174 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

sown in April will make rapid progress and yield a wealth of blossoms 
in summer. Self-sown seedlings frequently spring up in considerable 
numbers. The best kinds, in addition to those named, are : asperum, 
yellow, 8 inches, biennial ; asperum purpureum, purple ; helveticum, 
orange, 12 inches, perennial ; pulchcllum, yellow, 6 inches, perennial ; 
pumilum, yellow, 2 inches, perennial ; and rupestre, about 3 inches, 
perennial. The three last-named are easily grown rock garden 
plants. 

Erythraea (Centaury). — Pretty flowering plants, nearly related to 
the Gentian (Natural Order Gentianaceae). They are widely dis- 
tributed in various countries. Some are only of annual duration, 
one of the best of this class being Centaurium, which grows about 
12 inches high and bears bright rose-coloured blossoms during summer. 
Other annual kinds are spicata and venusta, both with pink flowers. 
Of the perennials practically the only one met with in gardens is 
Mussonii, more generally known as diffusa ; this forms a neat-growing 
little plant about 4 inches high, studded with bright rose-coloured 
flowers throughout the summer. It is suitable for a sunny spot in 
the rock garden. The annuals seed freely, and the last-named kind 
may be increased by division, best carried out in late summer or 
early spring before growth recommences. 

Erythrina (Coral Tree). — Several of the Erythrinas, which belong 
to the Pea family (Leguminosae), form good-sized trees in warmer 
countries, and with us need the accommodation of a large glass house. 
Practically the only one grown in gardens is the Brazilian Erythrina 
Crista galli, which is used for summer bedding. It forms a stout, 
woody rootstock, from which annual shoots grow 3 or 4 feet high ; 
these are furnished with trifoliate leaves, and during August bear 
deep scarlet Pea-shaped blossoms. After flowering the stems gradu- 
ally die away, leaving only the sturdy rootstock or trunk. This 
ought to be wintered where it is safe from frost, during which period it 
must be kept practically dry at the root. In spring, when young 
shoots make their appearance, a light position in the greenhouse is 
necessary. The plants, kept in their large pots or tubs, are placed 
out-of-doors in early June. If the plants need repotting it should be 
done in spring before growth recommences, using for the purpose a 
compost made up of loam, leaf-mould, and sand. However, when 
established in large pots, annual re-potting is not needed. If planted 
in a sunny corner formed by two greenhouses or walls, the Erythrina 
will pass the winter if the dormant root is protected by mats. It 
is propagated by cuttings of the weakest of the young shoots taken 
in spring, when they are 4 inches long, and put in pots of sandy 



ERYTHRONIUM 



175 



soil in a closed case in the greenhouse. A second species, even hardier 
than the other, is herbacea, from the Southern United States. It is, 
however, not much grown, as it often fails to flower in a satisfactory 
manner. 

Erythronium {Dog's Tooth Violet). — A charming group of early 
spring flowers, belonging to the Lily family (Liliaceae). They form 
small, curious-shaped bulbs, suggestive of a dog's tooth, hence the 
popular name. The leaves, which are broadly oval, are mottled and 
marbled with purplish-brown 
and white, and are attractive 
in early spring. The solitary 
drooping flowers are about 2 
inches in diameter with re- 
fiexed segments, and on stems 
about 6 inches high. This 
description refers especially to 
the European Dog's Tooth 
Violet (Erythronium Dens- 
canis), but a strong family 
likeness runs through all of 
them. The flowers of Dens- 
canis vary from white to 
purple, through various inter- 
mediate shades of pink and 
rose. There are also some fine 
varieties raised in Holland, 
which are likely to supersede 
the common kind. Erythro- 
niums may be planted towards 
the front of the flower border, 
and are also favourite rock 
garden plants. They prefer 
partial shade and a moist, peaty or leafy soil. The American kinds 
need a sunnier spot than the others. Chief among them are : albi- 
dum, white, purple tinted ; americanum, yellow ; grandiflorum, bright 
yellow ; Hartwegii, yellow ; Hendersonii, pale purple ; Howellii, pale 
yellow, orange base, suffused purple ; Nuttallianum, yellow, red 
anthers ; and revolutum, pinkish-purple, afterwards deepening in 
colour. 

Escal Ionia. — Important shrubs belonging to the Natural Order 
Saxifragaceae ; the majority are evergreens and bear showy flowers. 
They are largely natives of Chili, a few coming from adjoining countries. 




THE DOG'S TOOTH VIOLET 
(Erythronium) 



176 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

whilst several useful hybrids have been raised. Unfortunately, they 
are not very hardy, and with a few exceptions are only available for 
the mildest parts of the country. There, however, they are invalu- 
able, for they thrive close to the sea, and one kind particularly, Escal- 
lonia macrantha, from Chiloe, can be used for hedges to protect other 
plants which are more susceptible to injury from the sea air. They 
thrive in any good garden soil, are easily increased from cuttings in 
summer, and require no regular pruning. Plants grown against waJls 
or bushes which are outgrowing their positions, may be cut back 
in spring. As groups in the shrubbery or as specimen plants or hedges, 
Escallonias are useful. The hardiest kinds are the white-flowered 
philippiana from Valdivia, a deciduous shrub 3 to 4 feet high ; Lang- 
leyensis, an attractive garden hybrid of loose growth, which bears 
showy pink flowers with the greatest freedom ; and the white-flowered 
exoniensis, which forms a bush 15 feet or more high. For the milder 
counties Escallonia macrantha is the most useful of all ; it is an ever- 
green with bold dark green leaves, and it bears a profusion of rich 
rose-coloured flowers. Other good sorts are : floribunda, pterocladon, 
pulverulenta, and rubra ; montevidensis should be grown against a 
wall ; it bears large heads of white flowers late in the summer. 

Eschacholtzia [Calif ornian Poppy). — One of the showiest of hardy 
annuals ; it belongs to the Poppy family (Natural Order Papaveraceae). 
The typical Eschscholtzia californica, which has given rise to the 
various forms now in cultivation, forms a wide-spreading plant from 
12 to 18 inches high, with pretty, much-divided, glaucous foliage, 
and bears for weeks in summer large Poppy-like flowers of brilliant 
yellow with orange centre. The range in colour of the garden varieties 
is now considerable, varying as they do from almost white to deep 
ruby red. Among the best are : Carmine King, rich carmine, suffused 
with orange ; Diana, pale pink ; Mandarin, orange, scarlet, and gold ; 
Mikado, orange-crimson ; Rose Cardinal, deep rose ; and Ruby King, 
deep ruby. Eschscholtzias are not at all particular as to soil ; they 
will grow on poor ground, but they must have a sunny spot, as it 
is only then that their brilliant flowers ate seen at their best. The 
seed-pods must be cut off as soon as the flowers drop, or the period 
of blooming is shortened. The seed may be sown either in autumn or 
spring ; the seedlings should be thinned out to about 9 inches apart. 

Eucalyptus [Blue Gum). — Among the Eucalyptus, which belong 
to the Natural Order Myrtaceae, are found the largest growing trees 
of the Southern Hemisphere, and probably of the world, for some are 
said to exceed the dimensions of the Sequoias of California ; the timber 
of numerous kinds is very hard and durable. Jarrah and Karri, which 



EUCHARIDIUM 177 

are probably the two most serviceable woods known, and are used 
for street paving, are species of Eucalyptus, the former being the wood 
of marginata and the latter of diversicolor. Although natives of 
Australia, the Eucalyptus adapt themselves quickly to the conditions 
of other countries, and large quantities are being grown in South 
Africa, British Central Africa, California, and elsewhere. Many of 
them can be grown out-of-doors in the milder parts of the British Isles. 
The hardiest is Gunnii, after which come Globulus, amygdalina, and 
robusta. Eucalyptus Globulus is often grown in pots, and is used for 
summer bedding on account of its showy glaucous blue leaves. There 
are trees 30 to 40 feet or more high in Cornwall. Plant in any good 
garden soil. Regular pruning is unnecessary. Most of the Euca- 
lyptus are easily raised from seed sown in a greenhouse in spring, 
and grow quickly. 

Eucharidium. — Two useful summer flowering annuals, natives 
of California, are found among Eucharidium, which belongs to the 
Evening Primrose family (Onagraceae). They are very uncommon, 
but well worth more extended cultivation. Eucharidium Breweri is 
about 6 inches high, with pale rose-coloured blossoms ; while those 
of concinnum, a somewhat taller plant, vary from lilac to purple. 
The seed may be sown in early autumn for early summer bloom, while 
a sowing in April will give a display from July onwards. Well-drained 
sandy loam is a suitable soil, though these plants are not fastidious, 
but full exposure to sunshine is necessary. 

Eucomis. — Pretty, free-flowering, bulbous plants, members of the 
Lily family (Liliaceae), and natives of South Africa. The hardiest and 
most ornamental kind is punctata, which forms a tuft of prettily 
undulated leaves, and produces a stout, erect flower stem, 2 feet 
high, and curiously mottled with brown, bearing in summer or early 
autumn numerous blossoms ; these, which are crowded together on 
the upper part of the stem, are greenish-white, tinged with rose. 
Other kinds are : pallidiflora, taller and with greenish-white flowers, 
and regia, white. Eucomis is not thoroughly hardy, and is usually 
grown in a greenhouse. The plants will, however, thrive in a narrow, 
sunny border at the foot of a south wall, providing the soil is good 
loam and well drained ; the bulbs should be planted about 6 inches 
deep. Planting is best done in autumn as soon as the leaves die 
down, and the bulbs may be protected in winter by a few leaves or 
Cocoanut fibre refuse. They produce offsets which are available for 
purposes of propagation, while they can also be raised from seeds ; 
in the open these rarely ripen, but they will do so if the flowers are 
artificially pollinated and the plants kept in the greenhouse. 



178 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Eucommia ulmifolia is a new slirub from China, belonging to 
the Natural Order Trochodendraceae. It is of rapid growth, and 
forms an upright-growing tree or large busli. There is nothing, how- 
ever, about either flowers or leaves to attract attention, but it is of 
interest because all parts of the plant contain caoutchouc, or an inferior 
kind of rubber, a product which is not known to occur in any other 
tree or shrub hardy in this country. In China the bark is said to be 
a valuable medicine. Male and female flowers are produced on different 
plants, but neither is showy. Plant in loamy soil, propagate from cut- 
tings, and cut away the lower branches when necessary, clearing the 
leading shoot and shortening the sideshoots at the same time. Summer 
is a good time for the work, 

Eucryphia. — This is a very showy group of shrubs, belonging to the 
Rose family (Rosaceae). Three species are in cultivation : Billardieri 
from Tasmania, and cordifolia and pinnatifolia from Chili. The last- 
named is the best known and hardiest ; it grows to a height of from 12 
to 20 feet, with a wide spread. The dark green leaves are usually made 
up of about five narrow leaflets, which may be either deciduous or 
persistent, according to the climatic conditions. The white flowers 
are nearly 3 inches across ; they are borne in July in sufficient numbers 
almost to hide the leaves. Eucryphia cordifolia is an equally showy 
bush with simple, oblong, evergreen leaves and white flowers. It is 
more tender, and only suitable for the warmer counties. The Tas- 
manian kind has smaller leaves and flowers, and is an inferior bush. 
Plant in well-drained warm loam containing a little peat, and pro- 
pagate from seeds whenever it is possible. Plants are sometimes 
raised from layers, but they are never very satisfactory. No regular 
pruning is required, but a few of the weaker inside shoots may be 
removed occasionally. It is not wise to transplant the bushes oftener 
than is absolutely necessary. 

Eugenia. — A large group of trees and shrubs allied to the Myrtles 
(Natural Order M5nrtaceae). Several grown in the gardens of the 
south-west counties under the name of Eugenia are really species of 
Myrtus. Thus Eugenia apculata is really Myrtus Luma and Eugenia 
Ugni is Myrtus Ugni. These are referred to under Myrtus. The 
majority of the true Eugenias are tropical trees or shrubs which are 
widely distributed in Brazil, India, Malaya, Australia, and other 
countries. Many of them bear handsome edible fruits. Of these 
Jambos, the Rose Apple of tropical Asia, and malaccensis, the Malay 
Apple, are two of the best known. The wood of some kinds is also 
of value. A few are sometimes grown in tropical glasshouses in this 
country, but they are not common. 



EULALIA 



179 



Eulalia (Miscanthus).— An ornamental group of Grasses (Natural 
Order Gramineae), natives of China and Japan. The only kind in 
general cultivation is Eulalia japonica with its varieties. This forms 
a tuft of tall stems to a height of 5 to 6 feet or even more, the leaves 
recurve in a graceful manner, while the crown-like inflorescence, which 
well overtops the foliage, is striking. The varieties are : albo lineata, 
leaves striped with white ; gracillima, of graceful habit, the long, 
narrow leaves having a white midrib ; and zebrina, remarkable from 
the fact that bars of yellow run across the leaves instead of longitu- 
dinally, as in most variegated-leaved Grasses. Eulalias thrive in 
ordinary garden soil, provided it 
is fairly moist, while they are 
effective by the side of water. 
Two varieties, namely, albo lineata 
and gracillima, when grown in 
pots are sometimes used as " dot " 
plants in summer bedding. 

Euonymus. — Evergreen and 
deciduous shrubs (Natural Order 
Celastraceae), which are of con- 
siderable value in the garden. A 
few kinds are not generally hardy, 
however. The majority bear hand- 
some fruits, and are cultivated for 
that purpose alone ; others are 
grown for their evergreen leaves 
and their ability to withstand the 
effects of a salt-laden atmosphere 
within a few feet of high-water mark near the sea ; whilst others, 
again, are showy in autumn by reason of their richly coloured 
leaves. They are found in Europe, Asia, and North America, 
whilst one species, europaeus, is included in the British flora. They 
thrive in ordinary garden soil, are propagated by seeds or cuttings, 
one kind, radicans, by division, and any necessary pruning should 
be done in summer. Euonymus alatus is most showy by reason 
of its autumn tints, whilst the fruits of europaeus, americanus, lati- 
folius, and oxyphyllus are very attractive. Euonymus japonicus is 
very useful, as it forms a large bush quite close to the sea, and can 
be used for all kinds of purposes, including hedges. Its rich dark 
green leaves are always attractive, whilst its golden- and silver-leaved 
varieties are in constant use as garden shrubs in the south and for 
greenhouse decoration farther north. Its one defect — at least in 




FRUITS OF THE SPINDLE TREE 
(Euonymus europaeus) 



i8o THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

inland gardens — is its liability to attacks from caterpillars of, chiefly, 
the Magpie Moth. Euonymus radicans is also useful, as it grows 
almost as well as the common Ivy beneath the shade of trees. The 
clumps may be divided and the sections planted 12 inches apart 
on bare ground, when they will soon grow into a dense mass. By 
clipping over in May or June a good carpet is formed ; both green 
and silver varieties can be procured. 

Eupatorium {Hemp Agrimony). — Herbaceous perennials or sub- 
shrubs belonging to the Daisy family (Compositae), and natives chiefly 
of the Western Hemisphere. Those from North America are quite 
hardy, while some tender kinds, fit only for the greenhouse, occur 
farther south. Those suitable for the herbaceous border, or for the 
wild garden, for they will hold their own almost anywhere, even in 
boggy places, are : ageratoides, 3 or 4 feet high, with large heads of 
small white flowers in late summer and early autumn ; cannabinum 
(native of Britain), taller, bears terminal umbels of pink flowers in 
late summer, while the North American kind, purpureum, has deep 
purple flowers. This, which blooms at the same season, grows 5 or 
6 feet high. All are readily increased by division. 

Euphorbia (Spurge). — There are hundreds of Euphorbias (Natural 
Order Euphorbiaceae), but few of them are of garden value, and some 
are tender and quite unfitted for the open garden. Among the best 
are : capitata, 16 inches high, with little grey Box-like foliage and 
yellow flowers ; Characias, 2 feet, long glaucous leaves and greenish 
flowers with dark centre ; Cyparissias, 12 inches, yellowish-green, 
on a dry, stony bank in full sun the pale green leaves of this kind 
change to a brilliant red, in which stage it is very effective. One of 
the best of all is Euphorbia epithymoides, of which the young leaves, 
floral bracts, and blossoms are of a golden tint ; it reaches a height 
of about I foot, and is at its best in spring, becoming greener as the 
season advances. A pretty little trailing plant is Euphorbia Myr- 
sinites, with small glaucous leaves and bright yellow flowers.- The 
leaf-like bracts, which surround the flower-heads and are of the same 
golden tint as the blossoms, render Euphorbia pilosa major very 
attractive during May and June ; it grows about 18 inches high. A 
more continuous flowering kind than most others is Euphorbia poly- 
chroma, with yellow flower-heads and bracts. The last to mention 
is the largest of all, namely. Euphorbia Wulfenii, that forms a sturdy 
bush 4 to 5 feet in height, with glaucous foliage and greenish-yellow 
flowers. 

Euphorbias are well suited for planting in dry, stony soils, as 
under such conditions the colouring of the leaves and floral bracts 



EURYA i8i 

is much brighter than in richer soil. They are readily increased by 
division. 

Eurya. — Evergreen shrubs, near relatives of the Camellia (Natural 
Order Ternstroemiaceae), which in general appearance they somewhat 
resemble. The hardiest is Eurya japonica, but even this is available 
only for planting in particularly favoured spots, such as the extreme 
south-west of England. The best known is japonica latifolia varie- 
gata, in which the young leaves are freely variegated with various 
shades of green and yellow, suffused with red. As the leaves mature 
the reddish tint disappears, but the different tones of yellow and 
green remain. This plant is occasionally used in summer bedding. 
it must be wintered in the greenhouse. Cuttings of the half-ripened 
shoots, put in a closed case in a slight warmth in July, can be tried, 
but they do not root at all readily. It is of neat growth, and requires 
no pruning beyond that necessary to keep the plants shapely. 

Evening Primrose. — {See Oenothera.) 

Everlasting Pea..— {See Lathyrus.) 

Exochorda.— Two kinds of Exochorda (member of the Rose 
family, Rosaceae) are known, one a native of Turkestan and the 
other of China. They are large-growing bushes allied to Spiraeas, 
their flowers are, however, considerably larger. The cultural require- 
ments are similar to those of the spring-flowering Spiraeas, for they 
thrive in loamy soil, may be increased by means of cuttings in summer, 
or by seeds, and require no regular pruning. What little pruning is 
done should take the form of thinning away weak inside shoots during 
summer. They must be given a sunny position, and are suitable 
for the shrubbery or for planting as isolated specimens. The flower- 
ing time is May. The species are : Alberti, from Turkestan, a 
bush 8 or lo feet high ; and grandifiora, from China, which grows 
from 12 to 15 feet in height. The flowers in both instances are 
white. 

Fablana imbricata. — An interesting and decorative plant belong- 
ing to the Potato family (Solanaceae) and a native of Peru and adjoin- 
ing countries, suitable for the open ground in the southern counties, 
for walls in the Midlands and west, and for the greenhouse elsewhere. 
Its growth is suggestive of that of the Heaths, for the tiny evergreen 
leaves are produced closely together on upright branches, which 
attain a height of 3 to 4 feet. The tubular white flowers, each i inch 
long, which appear from the leaf axils during late spring or early 
summer, are, however, quite distinct. It grows in ordinarily good 
garden soil, is increased from cuttings during spring and summer, 
and its branches should be shortened by several inches after flowering. 



i82 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Fagus {Beech). — The most important species in this group (Natural 
Order Cupuliferae) is the Common Beech, Fagus sylvatica, a well- 
known forest tree in the British Isles and throughout a considerable 
part of Europe. There is, however, another hardy Beech, also a 
tree, native of North America, namely, Fagus ferruginea, the American 
Beech. Several kinds from South America and from New Zealand 
are sometimes included with Fagus ; they are, however, correctly 
named Nothofagus. 

Beech, though available for general cultivation throughout the 
British Isles, is peculiarly adapted for chalky land, and attains great 
luxuriance in the neighbourhood of the Chiltern Hills, a well-known 
chalky district. There the wood has become very popular for the manu- 
facture of chairs, toys, backs of brushes, and all kinds of small articles. 
It is a valuable tree for ornamental planting, and is also esteemed by 
the forester not only for the value of its timber, but because its heavy 
leafage enriches the ground upon which it grows. It can also endure 
a considerable amount of shade in its youth, and is useful for under- 
planting thin woods composed of large trees. There are many garden 
varieties, of which those with purple- or copper-coloured leaves are 
the most popular. Good ones are : atropurpurea norwegiensis, pur- 
purea major, and " Sweet Margaret," with purple leaves ; cuprea, with 
copper-coloured foliage ; macrophylla, and Prince George of Crete, 
with very large leaves ; and pendula, pendula borneyensis, and mil- 
tonensis, with weeping branches. Fagus ferruginea may be grown 
as a change. 

The species are raised from seeds sown as soon as ripe, and the 
varieties by grafting upon stocks of the type. Pruning should take 
the form of keeping the trees to a single trunk, and to the thinning 
of surplus and the removal of lower branches from young trees. This 
may be done in summer. The Common Beech is often used for hedges. 

Fairy Rings. — Disfiguring marks, circular in outline, are often 
found on lawns, golf greens, tennis courts, and bowling greens ; they 
are known familiarly as " fairy rings," and are due to the presence 
of fungi. Several kinds of fungus act in a similar manner, one of the 
commonest being Marasmius oreades. A ring may originate from a 
single spore. The mycelium or underground stage of the fungus 
always grows in a circular manner and in an outward direction, thus 
continually adding to the circumference of the circle. During summer 
or early autumn the fructification stage appears in the form of smedl 
toadstools, from which spores are distributed to other places. There 
are two methods of destroying the fungus. One is to dig the mycelium 
out, which can be done by removing the soil to a depth of about 



FATSIA 183 

10 inches, taking care to remove 3 or 4 inches of the grass beyond 
the outer edge of the ring, and fiHing with good soil ; and the other 
method is thoroughly to soak the affected area with water contain- 
ing sulphate of iron at the rate of i pound of the chemical to i^ gallons 
of water. The mixture must be applied when the ground is wet, 
and sufficient should be given to soak the soil. 
False Daisy. — {See Bellium.) 
False Starwort. — {See Boltonia.) 

Fatsia {Aralia). — This genus is composed of shrubby plants (Nat- 
ural Order Araliaceae), which are closely related to the Aralia. The two 
hardiest kinds are : horrida, a spiny shrub from North- West America 
and North-East Asia ; and japonica, a native of Japan. The former 
is of little horticultural importance, but japonica is an excellent ever- 
green for the southern counties in almost any soil. It forms a large 
bush with comparatively few branches, each one terminated by a 
fine head of large, dark green, fan-shaped leaves. Very late in the 
year, often in October, immense inflorescences of cream-coloured 
flowers appear. Ivy-like fruits are sometimes matured, and the seeds 
form a good means of increase. Cuttings of the smaller shoots can 
also be rooted by inserting them in a warm and closed frame in spring 
or summer. There is a variety with pretty silver variegated leaves ; 
it is somewhat less hardy than the type. Both plants are sometimes 
grown in pots for room decoration under the wrong name of Castor 
Oil Plant. 

Fendlera rupicola. — This is a rare and pretty shrub (Natural 
Order Saxifragaceae) from the South- West United States. It is of 
slender twiggy growth, bearing small, greyish-green, ovate leaves, 
and white flowers in May, which are nearly i inch across. Except in 
the warmer counties, it is unsuitable for borders, and should be given 
a position against a south or west wall, using loamy soil in which 
a little peat or leaf -mould has been mixed. It is increased by cuttings 
in summer, and needs no other pruning save what is necessary in order 
to train it to a wall. A sunny position is essential to success. 

Ferula {Fennel). — ^Decorative herbaceous plants belonging to the 
Natural Order Umbelliferae, known under the common name of Giant 
Fennel, The various kinds thrive in any rich garden soil, such as suits 
other herbaceous plants, and should only be planted in places where 
they can have abundance of room, for it is only when the large finely- 
cut leaves are not crowded by other plants that their beauty is appre- 
ciated. They are found in South Europe, Persia, the Canary Islands, 
North Africa, and other countries, and upwards of a dozen species 
can be procured. A few of the best are : communis, from the Medi- 



i84 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

terranean region ; Ferulago, South Europe ; glauca, South Europe ; 
and Narthex, from the Orient. All have yellow flowers in large in- 
florescences. Asafoetida of commerce is obtained from Ferula 
Asafoetida. All may be increased by seeds or by division. 

Festuca. — This group of Grasses (Natural Order Gramineae) con- 
tains a number of useful perennial kinds usually included in mixtures 
of seed for permanent pastures and for lawns. The more important 
ones for this purpose are duriuscula, the Hard Fescue Grass ; elatior, 
Dover Grass ; elatior var. pratensis, Meadow Fescue Grass ; ovina, 
the Sheep's Fescue Grass ; ovina, var. tenuifolia ; and rubra, the Red 
Fescue Grass. They are common European Grasses (included in the 
British Flora) of neat growth, and constant mowing assists them to 
form a compact, velvety sward. They give good results on light soils, 
and when a particularly close surface is required a dressing of sea sand 
now and then is of great assistance. Festuca glauca is a pretty kind, 
with blue-green leaves. 

FIcus (Fig). — The importance of this genus (which belongs to the 
Natural Order Urticaceae) is considerable, although its value is more 
fully appreciated in the Tropics than elsewhere. The various species 
are very widely distributed through tropical Asia, Africa, Australia, 
etc., and they vary considerably in growth, some being weak, climbing, 
or prostrate shrubs, others small trees, and others, again, trees of 
considerable dimensions. In one instance the fruit is an important 
article of commerce in both fresh and dried conditions, whilst one 
kind, the Common Fig (Ficus carica), is grown in this country solely 
for its fruit in many gardens. Then, a valuable rubber is produced 
by some species, notably elastica, from India, and Vogelii, from Lagos. 
A rubber-like substance is, however, present throughout the genus, 
for if an incision is made in the stem of any kind, a white, milky exuda- 
tion will occur. This, if touched, will be found to be of a viscid nature. 
Another interesting tree is Ficus Sycamorus, sometimes called the 
Sycamore Fig of Egypt. The fruits are eaten by the Arabs, and the 
timber is of interest as being the so-called Sycamore Wood of Egypt, 
from which the ancient Egyptians often made coffins, etc. 

Ficus carica, the Common Fig, native of Afghanistan and Eastern 
Persia, is a familiar bush or small tree in this country. It is moder- 
ately hardy, and grows quite well as a bush in the open in many parts 
of the United Kingdom. Fruits are not ripened regularly', however, 
except against warm walls or under glass. The ornamental leaves 
warrant its being placed in a shrubbery, where it may be expected 
to grow quite well in ordinary garden soil, and to require no regular 
pruning. 



FITZROYA PATAGONICA 185 

Ficus elastica is probably next in importance, for its large, leathery, 
evergreen leaves make it valuable for both greenhouse and room 
decoration. It is propagated by means of cuttings, buds, or by 
" ringing " the terminal shoots of plants which have become bare 
below. 

Fishbone Thistle. — {Sec Chamaepeuce.) 

Fitzroya patagonica is a handsome evergreen Conifer (Natural 
Order Coniferae). It is a native of the mountains of Western Pata- 
gonia, Chili, and Valdivia, and has only one known relative, that being 
Fitzroya Archeri, from Tasmania, Fitzroya patagonica forms a small 
tree of upright growth with elegant branchlets clothed with tiny dark- 
green leaves. It is at home in the gardens of the south-west counties, 
Ireland, and other places, where similar climatic conditions prevail, 
and is seen to the best advantage when grown as an isolated specimen 
in a sheltered position. Moist but well-drained soil is necessary, 
propagation is by seeds or cuttings, and pruning is unnecessary except 
to keep the plant shapely. 

Fleabane. — {See Erigeron.) 

Flowering Rush. — {See BuTOMUS.) 

Foam Flower. — {See Tiarella.) 

Forget-me-not. — {See Myosotis.) 

Forsythia {Golden Bell). — An important group of shrubs belonging 
to the Natural Order Oleaceae. All bear yellow flowers and blossom 
during April. There are three species, a hybrid, and several varieties. 
Two of the species are natives of China and the third of Albania. All 
thrive in ordinary garden soil, and are available for cultivation in 
most parts of the British Isles. Cuttings of soft shoots inserted in 
a little warmth root quickly during June. In addition to being of 
the greatest value for groups in the open or in the shrubbery, they 
may also be used for forcing, and good-sized plants are very pleasing 
when arranged with Ferns, Palms, or other foliage plants. Forsythia 
europaea is not so ornamental as the rest ; it forms an upright bush 
4 feet or so high, and should only be selected when a full collection 
is desired. Forsythia suspensa is one of the twelve best early-flowering 
shrubs ; in its normal condition it forms upright main growths, with 
long, pendent, secondary branchlets, and it is from these that the 
flowers appear from almost every bud. When planted against a 
trellis, wall or other support it is very effective, whilst it looks 
well in a shrubbery. It may, however, be grown in quite a different 
manner. If planted in the open and cut back each year, strong, 
erect stems, 3 to 4 feet long, are formed instead of the slender 
pendent shoots of natural growth ; they bloom with remarkable 



i86 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

freedom. Plant in rich loamy soil, and cut back the secondary 
branches to within a bud or two of the main branches as soon as 
the flowers fade. 

Forsythia viridissima is an upright bush, 3 to 4 feet high and the 
same in width ; it is recognised by its deep green leaves and green 
bark ; the flowers appear a fortnight later than those of suspensa. 
Forsythia intermedia is a hybrid between the two last-named ; of 
very vigorous habit, it grows 8 or 10 feet high, and blooms freely. 
Specially good forms of this are spectabilis and densiflora. The varie- 
gated-leaved Forsythias are of little value. 

Fothergilla. — ^Two kinds of Fothergilla, which belong to the 
Witch Hazel family (Hamamelidaceae), are available for garden 
decoration ; Gardeni and major, both natives of the United States. 
Although allied to the Witch Hazels, they are of very different appear- 
ance, and the flowers are produced in dense heads during May. In 
both instances the flowers are white and rather showy, while the leaves 
colour well in autumn. Fothergilla major is the better and more 
vigorous shrub of the two ; growing 3 or 4 feet high, it forms a bushy 
plant, and bears its flower-heads with freedom. The leaves are golden 
in autumn. Although introduced within recent years, it has already 
taken kindly to our gardens, and thrives in light loamy soil in 
which a little peat has been dug. Cuttings may be rooted during 
summer, and pruning is unnecessary. Fothergilla Gardeni is often 
less than 2 feet high ; its branches are more slender than those of 
the other species. 

Foxglove. — {See Digitalis.) 

Fragaria {Strawberry). — This group, which belongs to the Rose 
family (Rosaceae), is interesting from the fact that it includes the 
Strawberry, Fragaria vesca. It is composed of low-growing herbaceous 
plants, which spread by means of runners, and are distributed through 
Europe, India, China, and North and South America ; they thrive 
in ordinary garden soil, and a few kinds may be planted in the rock 
garden. In each case propagation is effected by division of the clumps 
or by the removal of runners. As in the case of the Strawberry, 
it is advisable to remove any runners during summer that are not 
required for increasing the stock. Moreover, it is wise to commence 
again with young plants every few years. A few useful kinds are : 
chiloensis, a Chilian and Calif ornian plant, growing 6 to 9 inches high 
and bearing white flowers in May ; indica, a dwarf, white-flowered 
plant from India and China, suitable for the rockery ; and vesca flore 
pleno, a double-flowered form of the common Wild Strawberry. Other 
species are elatior, californica, and virginiana. 



FRANCOA 187 

Francoa {Bridal Wreath). — The Francoas are very useful herbaceous 
plants, belonging to the Natural Order Saxifragaceae. They do not 
die down to the ground, and may only be considered to be really hardy 
in the south and south-west counties. Nevertheless, their beauty is 
such that in colder districts it is worth while storing them in cold frames 
during winter to plant out in May ; whilst one kind, Francoa ramosa, 
commonly called the Bridal Wreath plant, is often grown in pots 
for greenhouse decoration. Those planted out-of-doors should have 
well-drained, rather light soil ; whilst those grown in pots require a 
compost of 3 parts fibrous loam to | part each of leaf-mould, decayed 
manure, and sand. Propagation is by seeds or by cuttings. The 
three cultivated kinds are : appendiculata, growing, when in flower, 
2 or 2 1 feet high and bearing purplish flowers ; ramosa, 2 to 2^ feet, 
with white, pink-flushed blooms ; and sonchifolia, similar in height, 
with light purplish blossoms. All are natives of Chili, and all bloom 
in summer except when grown under glass. 

Frankenia laevis {Sea Heath). — A low-growing shrub, native of 
Europe and other countries, belonging to the Natural Order Frankenia- 
ceae. As a rule, its branches are prostrate and clothed with tiny leaves 
in whorls after the manner of some of the Heaths. The flowers are rose- 
coloured and small. Its interest centres in the fact that it thrives in 
soil near the sea which is saturated with salt, hence it may be used 
to help to bind shifting sand. It is sometimes spoken of as the Sea 
Heath. Propagation is by seeds ; when once the plants are established, 
they ought not to be disturbed. Frankenias are sometimes planted 
in the rock garden, but are little better than curiosities. 

Fraxinus {Ash). — This is an important genus (Natural Order 
Oleaceae), for it includes several valuable timber trees. British Ash 
is considered to be one of the toughest of European woods, and is in 
great demand for the manufacture of agricultural implements, 
aeroplanes, etc. ; American Ash is used for similar purposes. Fraxinus 
thrives in any good soil, but gives the best results on deep, moist, 
moderately heavy loam, and the best timber is obtained from young 
trees. The vigorous kinds are more suitable for the woodland than 
for the garden. Planting may be carried out any time between early 
October and late March. All the species are increased by seeds sown 
as soon as ripe, in beds of light soil out-of-doors. Varieties are grafted 
upon stocks of their respective species in spring or are sometimes 
raised from layers. The only pruning required is that which is 
necessary to keep the leading shoots clear of rivals, and an occasional 
thinning of branches and removal of the lower ones; 

The Ashes are divided into two distinct groups, one of which 



188 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

bears showy, and the other inconspicuous, blooms. The first set 
is represented in Europe by the Manna Ash (Fraxinus Ornus). This 
is a bushy-headed tree, 50 to 60 feet high, which produces large ter- 
minal panicles of white flowers in May or June. Manna of commerce 
is obtained in Southern Europe from a solidified exudation from the 
trunk and branches. Mariesii, from Central China, is another flower- 
ing kind of considerable merit ; it has creamy- white flowers followed 
by reddish fruits. Another of the same group is longicuspis, a 
Japanese tree, 20 to 30 feet high, which is rather uncommon in this 
country. All the flowering Ashes form good garden trees. 

Of the other Ashes, the best known is the Common Ash (Excelsior), 
a native of Europe. It is an important woodland and hedgerow tree, 
growing up to 145 feet high, with a trunk 3 to 4 feet in diameter. There 
are many varieties, of which pendula and pendula Wentworthii, with 
weeping branches, are very popular as lawn trees. Another variety, 
which is variously called heterophylla, monophylla and integrifoha, is 
distinct by reason of its single-lobed leaves, the Ashes generally having 
pinnate leaves ; var. aurea has golden stems and leaves ; foliis argen- 
teis has silver variegated leaves, but is not pretty, and globosa is of 
dwarf habit. There are many other varieties. Other useful species 
are americana (Wliite Ash), native of North America, a tree 120 feet 
high, with a trunk 5 to 6 feet in diameter ; angustifolia, 60 to 70 feet, 
long leaves with narrow leaflets. Southern Europe and North Africa ; 
dimorpha, 20 feet, leaves up to 3 inches long. North Africa (the var. 
dumosa is even dwarfer) ; oregona, 80 feet, Western North America ; 
parvifolia, small tree, narrow leaves. Southern Europe and Asia Minor. 
There are many more species. 

Fremontia californica. — This is a small tree or large shrub, 
native of California, belonging to the Natural Order Sterculiaceae, 
too tender for general out-door cultivation in the British Isles, but 
suitable for the milder counties, where it is often planted against 
walls, but sometimes in the open. Of rapid growth, it forms rather 
soft, pithy branches clothed with ornamental greyish leaves ; and 
from the buds on the previous year's shoots quantities of rich golden- 
yellow flowers, each 2 to 3 inches across, are produced in May and 
June. It is often seen from 10 to 12 feet high, but sometimes twice 
as much. Unfortunately, it is short-lived, and plants have an un- 
accountable habit of dying suddenly. Increase is by means of seeds. 
Plant in warm, loamy soil containing a little peat, and prune no more 
than is absolutely necessary to keep it within bounds. This should 
be done after the fall of the flowers. 

Fritillaria {Fritillary). — A considerable number of attractive 




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FUCHSIA 189 

bulbous plants are included in Fritillaria, which belongs to the Lily 
family (Liliaceae). They are widely distributed through Europe, 
Asia Minor, Algeria, Siberia, North America, and other countries, 
one kind being found wild in the British Isles. Many of them are 
available for outdoor planting here, some thriving in beds in the open 
ground, and others giving the best results when planted in a border 
at the foot of a wall. Well-drained loamy soil, light rather than heavy, 
suits them, and the bulbs should be planted 2 or 3 inches deep in 
October or November for flowering the following spring. It is not 
necessary to lift the bulbs each year, for they bloom satisfactorily for 
two or three years in one place. Propagation is usually by offsets from 
the old bulbs, but seeds, sown as soon as ripe, may also be used. Two 
of the best-known kinds are Imperialis, native of the Orient, and Melea- 
gris, a European kind, wild in the British Isles. The former, the Crown 
Imperial of gardens, is a vigorous plant, 2 or 2| feet high, bearing large, 
showy bell-like flowers in spring ; there are several forms with red, 
orange, and yellow blooms ; the bulbs must be planted 6 inches deep. 
Fritillaria Meleagris is often called the Snake's-head Fritillary ; it is a 
dainty little plant, 8 to 15 inches high, each stem bearing a solitary, 
fairly large, pendent blossom, which may be purple, yellowish, or white, 
with beautifully tesselated marks of darker colours. Both kinds 
thrive in the open, and may be used in the wild garden, where a 
moderate amount of shade exists. Other good kinds are : aurea, a 
hardy plant, 4 or 5 inches high, from Asia Minor, with yellowish 
flowers marked with brown; citrina, a yellow-flowered species from 
Asia Minor ; gibbosa, a dwarf plant, 4 or 5 inches high, with 
purplish blooms. Latifolia, a very variable kind from the Caucasus, 
grows 12 inches high, its flowers may be purple, almost black, yellow, 
or lilac ; there are many named varieties. Fritillaria pudica, from 
North America, grows 6 inches high, and bears yellow flowers. 

Fuchsia. — Showy shrubs, belonging to the Natural Order Onagra- 
ceae, chiefly natives of Chili and Peru, though some are also found 
in Mexico, Brazil, and New Zealand. They are so widely grown as 
greenhouse plants that their value for outdoor planting is often over- 
looked. The hardiest kind is macrostemma, from Chili ; this and a 
number of well-marked varieties are excellent plants for shrubberies, 
specimen plants, and hedges in the maritime counties, where examples 
6 to 10 feet high are common. Elsewhere they are treated as her- 
baceous plants and cut to the ground line each spring, a crop of vigor- 
ous young shoots being produced afterwards which blossom finely 
throughout summer. They thrive in ordinary garden soil, are easily 
increased by cuttings dibbled into a shady border in summer ; when 



190 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

grown as bushes the previous year's shoots are cut wellback in February, 
the majority of the very weak shoots being removed at the same time. 
Distinct varieties are : conica, corallina, discolor, globosa, gracilis, 
and gracilis variegata. All have red and purple flowers. Fuchsia 
Riccartoni is among the hardiest of all, as it is certainly one of the 
most beautiful ; sometimes classed as a variety of macrostemma, it is 
by other people considered to be a hybrid. Whatever its origin, it 
is a very attractive free-flowering bush, 8 or lo feet high, and as far 
through, while it is also available for informal hedges, giving excellent 
results even when exposed to the full force of strong sea breezes. 
Its flowers are red and purple. 

Tender Fuchsias, usually grown under glass, are excellent sub- 
jects for summer bedding, either as standards or as dwarf plants. If 
planted out in May they give first-rate results, flowering freely through- 
out summer. People who have a frost-proof shed or cellar can keep 
the plants quite well during winter. They are placed in pots in autumn 
and left out-of-doors until the leaves have fallen ; then being taken 
inside and kept dry until spring. In March put them in a light 
place and water sparingly until new roots are active ; then give manure 
water once or twice a week until planting-out time. Do not allow the 
young growths to overcrowd each other, but remove a number when 
2 or 3 inches long ; these may be put in as cuttings if necessary. Any 
necessary cutting back of the old shoots is done in March. The single- 
flowered kinds are, as a rule, better than doubles for outdoor planting. 

Fumaria (Fumitory). — Many of the plants which were at one 
time included in this group of the Poppy family (Papaveraceae) should 
now be classed with Corydalis. Most of the Fumarias proper are 
annuals of a rather weedy character, and are known by the common 
name of Fumitory. Several kinds, such as capreolata, officinalis, 
densiflora, and parviflora, are common weeds in cultivated and waste 
land. Several of those which are now referred to as Corydalis have, 
however, considerable horticultural merit, and are worth a good 
and well-drained position in the rock garden in rather light soil. A 
few of the best are : bulbosa, a purple-flowered European plant, 
6 inches high, with finely cut leaves ; lutea, the Yellow Fumitory of 
Europe ; cheilanthifolia, a Chinese plant, 6 inches high, with finely 
cut leaves and inflorescences of yellow flowers ; thalictrifolia, another 
Chinese plant, with pretty finely divided leaves and yellow flowers ; 
tomentosa, also from China, a yellow-flowered plant, 5 to 7 inches 
high ; and Wilsonii, a very attractive species from China, with yellow 
flowers and finely cut, glaucous leaves. Other useful kinds are : 
nobilis, racemosa, and tuberosa. 



FUNKIA 191 

Fumitory. — {See Fumaria and Corydalis.) 

Funkia {Plantain Lily). — Hardy decorative border plants, be- 
longing to the Lily family (Liliaceae). The various species are natives 
of Japan, and are generally called Plantation or Plantain Lilies. The 
large oval leaves of several of the kinds are extremely ornamental, 
whilst those with variegated leaves are perhaps the most effective 
of variegated herbaceous plants. In addition, they produce showy 
inflorescences, whilst one, tardifiora, is one of our latest flowering 
border plants, its blossoms expanding during October and November. 
They are easily increased by division of the clumps in spring, and 
thrive in light but rich loamy soil. A moderate amount of moisture 
throughout the growing time is essential to success, and although 
they stand a fair amount of sun they give quite good results in semi- 
shade. Dwarf kinds, such as lancifolia and tardifiora, are useful for 
carpeting thin beds of shrubs or for use as edging plants. The leaves 
of the last-named grow 6 inches high, above which the inflorescences 
of mauve flowers rise another 6 inches. Funkia Fortunei is a vigorous 
plant with white or mauve flowers ; glauca is renowned for its showy 
blue-green leaves ; ovata has large, handsome leaves and tall flower 
stems 18 inches high, terminated by deep lilac flowers ; its varieties 
aurea and marginata have pretty variegated leaves, the former being 
especially attractive. Funkia Sieboldiana is another vigorous kind, 
with large leaves and creamy-lilac fragrant flowers ; subcordata, 
sometimes called grandiflora, is known as the Corfu Lily ; its large 
leaves and fragrant white flowers are equally attractive. The narrow- 
leaved Funkia lancifolia previously mentioned has several varieties. 
The variegated- leaved kinds are sometimes grown in pots for green- 
house decoration. 

Qaillardia {Blanket Flower). — Hardy annual and perennial plants 
are found in Gaillardia, which belongs to the Daisy family (Com- 
positae). The majority bloom very freely ; the flowers are showy, 
and in addition to being of great decorative use in the garden are 
useful for cutting. They thrive in ordinary, well-drained garden 
soil, and it is usual to sow seeds of the annual sorts in a greenhouse 
or frame in March, afterwards pricking out the seedlings in boxes 
2 inches apart each way, or placing them singly in 3-inch pots to plant 
out in May. Seeds may also be sown out-of-doors in April. Seedlings 
should be left quite 9 inches apart, for the plants grow rapidly and 
require considerable space. The perennial kinds are increased by 
cuttings placed in a cold frame in August, and it is advisable to 
keep a few plants in a frame for the winter, for those out-of-doors 
are apt to suffer from damp and cold, and in heavy ground often 



192 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

die after flowering. Seedsmen offer several varieties of the annual 
kinds which show variations of colour from red and yellow to red, 
yellow, or white. The flower-heads are often 3 inches across. The 
following species, all of North American origin, may be procured : 
amblyodon, annual, 2 to 2| feet high, flowers red ; aristata, 
perennial, 18 inches high, flowers yellow or red and yellow, many 
forms of this are obtainable, and it and its varieties or hybrids 
are better known than other kinds. The popular plant known as 
Gaillardia grandiflora, which has red and yellow blooms 4 inches 
across, belongs to this species. Gaillardia lanceolata is an annual 
with red and yellow flowers ; and pulchella, also an annual, is 
another very attractive plant with blooms of similar colour. Gail- 
lardia hybrida includes a large number of decorative garden kinds, 
e.g. alba, white ; aurea, golden ; coccinea, bright red ; and Josephus, 
red and yellow, are all good sorts. 

Qalanthus {Snowdrop). — The plants in this genus (Natural Order 
Amaryllidaceae) are more familiar under the common name of Snow- 
drop, and their flowers are perhaps more eagerly sought after than 
those of any other bulbous plant, for they begin to open early in 
the new year, and are the harbingers of other spring flowers. They 
are not very fastidious regarding soil, and may be planted in sun 
and shade, though they thrive best perhaps in good but light loamy 
soil in semi-shady positions. Snowdrops are excellent for planting 
in borders, shrubberies, woods, the wild garden, beneath trees, or as 
clumps in the rockery ; but they are less well adapted for planting 
amongst dense grass than Daffodils and Crocuses. In suitable 
positions they increase rapidly, and a few bulbs planted in August 
or September soon provide good-sized colonies. When grouping 
Snowdrops in the wilder parts of the garden care should be taken 
to spread them about so that no formal designs are noticeable. A 
good plan is to remove soil to a depth of from 4 to 6 inches, 
scatter the bulbs over the surface, rather close in some parts and 
thin in others, then replace the soil and insert a few small clusters 
outside the margins of the main group. Snowdrops are common 
in Asia Minor, and one or two kinds are found wild in Europe. 
Galanthus Elwcsii, from Asia Minor, and nivalis, a native of Europe, 
are the two commonest kinds. Both have several varieties ; of the 
former, ochrospeilus and unguiculatus may be obtained, whilst of the 
latter there are octobrensis, which blooms very early, Racheliae, and 
flore pleno, the last having double flowers. A few other species are : 
Alleni, byzantinus, caucasicus, Fosteri, latifolius, Olgae, and plicatus. 

Galax aphylla {Carpenter's Leaf). — A charming little evergreen 



GALEGA 



193 



plant from North America, suitable for planting in a moist position 
in peaty soil in the rock garden. It belongs to the Natural Order 
Diapensiaceae, and is a tufted plant 6 to 9 inches high, with many 
rounded leaves borne on very slender stalks appearing from a common 
rootstock. In winter the leaves become beautifully shaded with 
red and bronze. About June or July a further attraction is found 
in the delicately beautiful white flowers. Propagation is by division 
in autumn or spring. In the absence of peat a suitable soil may be 
provided by mixing leaf-mould and sandy loam in equal proportions. 
The common names of Wand Plant and Carpenter's Leaf are given 
to this plant. 

Galega {Goat's Rue). — Strong-growing and showy herbaceous 
plants belonging to the Pea family (Leguminosae). Two species are 
commonly met with — offi- 
cinalis, a native of Europe, 
etc., and orientalis, from the 
Caucasus. Both are peren- 
nials, and are commonly 
called Goat's Rue from the 
fact that goats fed upon 
the leaves and shoots are 
supposed to give an in- 
creased yield of milk. They 
thrive in any good garden 
soil, and usually grow about 
3 feet high. Galega offi- 
cinalis has pinkish flowers 
and orientalis bluish blos- 
soms. Each one has a 
white - flowered variety. 
Propagation is by seeds 
and by division of the 
clumps in spring. 

Galium. — A group of 
plants belonging to the Bou- 
vardia family (Rubiaceae), 
of little horticultural value. 
Several are found wild in 
the British Isles, and their 
white or yellow flowers 
sometimes make walls and 
dry banks attractive. Others 

N 




THE CAPE HYACINTH (Galtonia candicans) 



194 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

are, however, coarse weeds. The common name of Bedstraw is 
apphed to several, whilst Galium Aparine is known as the Goose 
Grass, and its fruits as Cleavers, from their habit of fastening them- 
selves to anything with which they come in contact. Some are of 
annual, others of perennial duration, but none is really worth atten- 
tion in the garden. 

Galtonia candicans {Cape Hyacinth).— This is the best-known 
species of this genus, which belongs to the Lily family (Lihaceae). It is 
a strong-growing bulbous plant, with leaves 2 to 2| feet long and flower 
spikes rising to a height of 3 or 3I feet, bearing numerous pendent 
white flowers resembling giant Snowdrops. The bulbs are usually 
planted in March, 6 or 7 inches below the surface, in rich and deep 
soil, and the flowers appear during July and August. They are some- 
times grown for several years in the same position without lifting, 
but they are liable to injury from cold in winter, and are best taken 
up in autumn and stored in a cool room until spring. It is a native 
of South Africa, and is sometimes called Hyacinthus candicans. Groups 
planted in the wilder parts of the garden or in the herbaceous border 
are very effective. Increase is by offsets taken off in autumn, or 
by seeds sown as soon as ripe. 

Garrya elliptica. — A handsome evergreen shrub belonging to 
the Dogwood family (Cornaceae). A native of California, it is not 
sufficiently hardy for general cultivation in the British Isles, though 
there are many places where it gives excellent results against east, 
south, or west walls, and in the southern counties it may be grown 
quite well in the open. It has two attractions, for it is a useful ever- 
green and a prett}^ and uncommon flowering shrub. Male and female 
flowers appear on different plants, those of the former being the more 
showy. They are borne from January to March in long, yellowish- 
green catkins, and the branches are useful for room decoration. Pro- 
pagation is by cuttings or layers. Plant in warni, loamy soil, and 
only give sufficient pruning to keep the plants shapely. Those planted 
against walls must not be hard pruned. There are other species, but 
they are inferior to the one described. 

Gaultheria. — Evergreen shrubs, belonging to the Heather family 
(Ericaceae), several of which are suitable for the outdoor garden. 
Gaultheria Shallon — the Shallon or Salal of Western North America — 
grows from 2 to 3 feet high and bears attractive foliage and racemes 
of pinkish-white flowers ; the flowering time is late spring, and the 
flowers are followed by dark purple or black fruits. It may be used 
as an undergrowth in thin woods in loamy or peaty soil, and when 
once established may be left undisturbed for many years. It can 




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GAURA 195 

also be used effectively in the garden. Increase is by seeds or division ; 
it needs no pruning. Gaultheria procumbens is the Partridge Berry 
or Creeping Wintergreen of North America. Scarcely rising to a 
height of 6 inches above the ground, it makes a pretty carpet of foliage 
relieved by white flowers in spring and red berries later. It must 
have a rather shady place in cool, moist soil. Gaultheria nummu- 
larioides, from the Himalaya ; antipoda, from Tasmania and New Zea- 
land ; and pyrolaefolia, from the Himalaya, are all dwarf, rather tender 
shrubby plants, suitable for the rock garden in the warmer counties. 
All are increased by seeds or cuttings, and require no pruning. 

Gaura. — Annual or perennial herbaceous plants and sub-shrubs, 
members of the Evening Primrose family (Onagraceae). Gaura Lind- 
heimeri, a native of Texas, is a pretty perennial growing 3 or 4 feet 
in height, which bears pink and white flowers freely during July and 
August. Gaura angustifolia is another pretty kind with pink flowers 
in August, whilst parviflora is a yellow-flowered annual, growing 12 
to 18 inches high. Plant in good loamy soil which is rather light 
and well drained. Lindheimeri is the only one commonly grown ; 
it is rather tender, and is usually raised each year from seeds sown 
in warmth in early spring. 

Gaylussacia is a group of shrubs allied to the Vacciniums, and 
belonging to the Natural Order Vacciniaceae. They require similar 
conditions to the Vacciniums and thrive in moist, peaty soil ; in fact, 
they may very well be used for planting on land which is inclined to 
be boggy. In some instances the leaves colour finely in autumn. 
All are natives of North America, and they are not grown much in 
this country. Propagation is by seeds and cuttings, and pruning is 
unnecessar}'. The species are brachycera, dumosa, frondosa, resinosa, 
and ursina. 

Gazania (Treasure Flower). — Showy plants belonging to the 
Daisy family (Compositae). The different kinds are only seen to 
advantage when planted in sunny positions, and they are well suited 
for grouping in the rock garden. Light soil suits better than heavy, 
and as they are not very hardy it is a good plan to root a few cuttings 
each year, and keep them in a cold frame during winter. One kind, 
Gazania splendens, is grown extensively for summer bedding ; it is 
of dwarf habit, with long, narrow leaves, and produces gorgeous, 
orange-coloured flowers 2 to 3 inches across. This is increased by 
cuttings in August, and again in spring ; it and other kinds are natives 
of South Africa. Gazania bracteata bears white and yellow flowers ; 
longiscapa, yellow ; lutea, yellow ; Pavonia, orange- scarlet ; and 
pygmaea, those of orange colour.- 



196 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Genista {Broom). — This group of shrubs, which are members of 
the Pea family (Leguminosae), is closely allied to Cytisus, and the 
various species require somewhat similar treatment. Pruning, how- 
ever, differs, for although it is wise to prune the taller growing kinds 
frequently whilst they are young to induce bushy growth, the pruning 
of older plants may be dispensed with. One species, however. Genista 
tinctoria, may be pruned every spring, for the flowers appear in July 
from the ends of the shoots formed during the current year. Some 
kinds can be increased by cuttings, but, as a rule, the best results 
are obtained by sowing seeds. The greenhouse plants usually grown 
as Genista racemosa and elegans are really Cytisus. The former is 
Cytisus fragrans, and the latter fragrans var. elegans. Both belong 
to the Canary Islands, and are excellent spring-flowering greenhouse 
plants, or in the southern counties they sometimes form large bushes 
out-of-doors. 

Genista aethnensis, the Mount Etna Broom, is a native of Sicily, 
etc., and is one of the greatest ornaments of the garden in July. 
Growing from 12 to 18 feet high, it has graceful, drooping, secondary 
branches which become streamers of golden blossoms ; anglica is a 
dwarf, spiny, yellow-flowered shrub, often found wild in this country ; 
cinerea, native of South-West Europe, forms a well-branched bush 
8 or 10 feet high, and bears golden blossoms in June ; dalmatica is a 
dwarf kind from Southern Europe suitable for the rock garden, it 
grows but a few inches high, but is covered with golden blooms in May. 

Genista hispanica, the Spanish Gorse, is one of the most orna- 
mental of dwarf kinds ; when isolated, the plants form globular 
specimens of crowded spiny shoots which in May are covered by 
golden blossoms ; it may be grown in the rock garden or in the open. 

Genista pilosa is a dwarf, spreading plant 12 to 18 inches high, 
native of Europe, it is excellent for carpeting ground beneath taller 
growing plants, the freely-borne flowers are golden in colour ; sagit- 
talis grows from 6 to 9 inches high, forming a dense mat of green, 
winged shoots which in May are covered with golden flowers. 

Genista tinctoria differs from other kinds by flowering in July 
from the points of the young wood, it is sometimes called Dyer's 
Greenwood ; the var. elatior, 2| feet high, is an improvement on the 
type, whilst the dwarf fiore pleno should also be grown ; virgata, a 
native of Madeira, is a very useful large-growing Broom, even in poor, 
sandy soil in full sun or semi-shade it forms bushy plants 12 feet 
or more high, which in June are covered with golden flowers. 

Qentiana {Gentian). — The Gentians, which belong to the Natural 
Order Gentianaceae, are remarkable chiefly for the wonderful blue 



GENTIANA 197 

colouring of their blossoms ; they vary very considerably in growth, 
some kinds being quite dwarf and suitable only for the rock garden, 
while others are noble plants for the flower garden. They are found 
wild in the European Alps, North and South America, the Himalaya, 
Japan, and other countries, while one kind, Gentiana verna, grows 
—though not abundantly— in the Highlands of Scotland and in Cum- 
berland. All the rock garden Gentians are somewhat tantalising 
plants : in some places they are grown successfully without the least 
difficulty, while in others they fail, not to grow, but to flower. The 
most popular of the dwarf kinds is Gentiana acaulis, native of the 
Swiss Alps, known popularly as the Gentianella ; it forms a tuft of 
rich green leaves, and in April and May bears large trumpet-shaped 
flowers, intense blue, with a greenish-yellow mark inside. In some 
gardens this Gentian is so easily grown that it is used as an edging 
in the flower garden ; in others, when the greatest pains are taken, 
it can scarcely be induced to bloom. It is most likely to succeed in 
deep, moist, loamy soil containing stones, and a sunny position ; very 
firm planting is essential, while copious supplies of water in spring 
and early summer are needed. It is said that protecting the plants 
in winter with a pane of glass (so arranged as to admit air freely) 
assists them to bloom. Gentiana bavarica, native of the European 
Alps, is a small plant with exquisite blue flowers in July ; it is difficult 
to grow, and should be planted in the moraine and supplied freely 
with moisture in spring and early summer, 

Gentiana Freyniana, from Asia Minor, and septemfida, from the 
Caucasus, are much alike, having showy blue flowers, the former in 
July and the latter in June ; they thrive best in a somewhat shady 
spot in the rock garden and in deep loamy and peaty soil. Gentiana 
decumbens, which blooms in July, and Kurroo, which flowers in 
September, are natives of the Himalaya, and should be given similar 
conditions to those advised for Gentiana septemfida. Gentiana 
Przewalskyii, from China, is another beautiful kind that is 
happy in partial shade in deep moist soil. The exquisite Vernal 
Gentian (Gentiana verna) is one of the chief favourites ; its bright 
blue flowers open in April. The conditions most likely to ensure 
success are a sunny position in the rock garden, and deep sandy loam ; 
it must be freely watered in spring and summer, for it is found wild 
in moist mountain pastures. 

The Willow-leaved Gentian (Gentiana asclepiadea), from South- 
East Europe, is a vigorous herbaceous plant, of which the flower 
stems reach a height of i8 inches, the showy blue flowers opening 
in July. Deep moist soil and a partially shaded position fulfil its 



198 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

needs, such, for example, as arc often provided in the bog garden. 
Gentiana lutea, from the European Alps, is a striking plant, with large 
leaves and bearing tall spikes, 2 or 3 feet high, of yellow flowers in 
July ; it likes well-drained loamy soil. The most satisfactory method 
of raising Gentians is by means of seed, which ought to be sown as 
soon as it is ripe, in pots of light soil placed in a cold frame. Gentians 
cannot be grown successfully in shallow soil that dries up quickly ; a 
moist root run is essential to all of them, and partial shade is beneficial 
to most kinds. 

Geranium. — The various plants contained in this group (Natural 
Order Geraniaceae) are closely allied to Pelargonium, and some con- 
fusion has arisen between the two. The plants so commonly used 
for summer bedding, for instance, under the name of Zonal Gera- 
niums, and the so-called scented-leaved Geraniums, are not Geraniums 
at all, but Pelargoniums. The true Geraniums are herbaceous plants, 
suitable for the flower border or rock garden. Several are wild in 
this country ; one, Geranium pratense, being the Common Crowfoot 
of our meadows, a handsome plant with large blue or purplish flowers. 
Another one, phaeum, with dark purplish flowers | inch across, is 
known in some parts as the Mourning Widow ; whilst some forms of 
sanguineum are very beautiful, and suitable alike for border or rock 
garden. The flowers of this species are various shades of red or rose. 

There are many exotic kinds which are well worth attention for 
herbaceous border or rock garden. Geranium argenteum, for in- 
stance, a native of the Alps of Europe, is a charming little plant 
3 or 4 inches high, with silvery leaves and rose-coloured flowers. 
Endressi, a more vigorous plant, from the Pyrenees, with rose-coloured 
flowers, is also attractive, as also are the blue-flowered Caucasian 
ibericum ; the purple-flowered macrorrhizum, an Eastern European 
plant of vigorous habit, suitable for naturalising in the wild garden ; 
pyrenaicum, with purple flowers ; and Wallichianum, with purple 
blossoms, plant in well-drained, light loamy soil and increase by 
means of seeds or by division. The very dwarf kinds with hairy 
leaves, such as Geranium argenteum, should be placed in a dry, sunny 
position where damp cannot remain long on the leaves. 

Gerbera {Transvaal Daisy). — The Gerberas, which belong to the 
Daisy family (Compositae), are distributed in South Africa, Siberia, 
and the Himalaya, but by far the most important one is the South 
African Gerbera Jamesoni, commonly called the Barberton or Trans- 
vaal Daisy. It is a very beautiful herbaceous flowering plant ; numer- 
ous leaves, 12 inches or so long, and not unlike those of the Dandelion 
in shape, are produced from a common rootstock, and well above them 




THE YELLOW GENTIAN (GENTIANA LUTEA) 



GEUM 199 

the large Daisy-like heads of flowers appear during the greater part 
of summer and early autumn. The flowers vary somewhat in colour, 
but are generally a rich shade of red or scarlet, and the fully ex- 
panded heads are about 3 inches across. Unfortunately, this extremely 
handsome plant is rather tender, yet it gives excellent results in sunny 
borders in the neighbourhood of London. A border facing south at 
the foot of a warm greenhouse wall is an excellent place, the heat 
from the glasshouse being sufficient to provide a Httle protection 
and to prevent the border from becoming cold and wet in winter. 
Gerbera Anandeia, from Siberia, and Kunzeana and nivea, white- 
flowered kinds from the Himalaya, though less showy, are hardier. 
In addition to these, a set of very beautiful hybrids has been raised 
by using Jamesoni as one parent ; they have flowers as large as those 
of the Barberton Daisy, with a wide range of colour from white to 
pink and red and from yellow to orange. They thrive under similar 
conditions to Gerbera Jamesoni, and in places where they will not 
thrive out-of-doors they are well worth growing in pots in a sunny 
greenhouse or frame. Good loamy soil, containing leaf-mould and 
sand, forms a suitable rooting medium, whilst increase is by seeds 
or division of the clumps in spring. The inflorescences are excellent 
for table decoration, both by reason of their graceful poise and 
exquisite colouring. 

Geum (Avens). — A number of very attractive herbaceous plants 
and numerous weeds are included in Geum (Natural Order Rosaceae). 
The British plants known under the common name of Avens are 
Geums. Geum chiloense, a native of Chili, is one of the most useful 
kinds ; it forms a tufted plant with leaves 8 to 10 inches long from 
the axils of which showy bright red flowers are borne during the 
greater part of summer ; the var. grandiflorum plenum has double 
flowers, and the double red-flowered Mrs. Bradshaw, which may be 
raised true from seed, is another very fine variety. Geum coccineum. 
from Greece and Asia Minor, is a useful red-flowered kind, while 
montanum and its var. grandiflorum bear beautiful yellow flowers. 
Geum reptans is a dwarf plant 6 to 8 inches high, and both it and its 
double-flowered variety bear yellow blossoms. The Geums are easily 
grown in rich garden soil, and are increased by division and seeds. 
It is unwise to keep old plants, for young ones blossom more profusely. 
A sunny position is desirable. 

Giant Asphodel. — {See Eremurus.) 

Cilia. — Several very beautiful annuals are found in this group 
(Natural Order Polemoniaceae). They are natives of the New World, 
the majority being from California, but one or two are found wild 



200 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

in otlicr parts of North America, and one in Chili and I'cru. They 
give the best results in rather hglit but rich loamy soil, and the seeds 
may either be sown thinly in boxes in I\Iarch or out-of-doors in April. 
Plants raised under glass must be pricked out in boxes i^ to 2 inches 
apart each way, and when they are planted towards the end of May, 
they may be put 4 to 6 inches apart. Seedlings raised out-of-doors 
must also be well thinned out, for no good object is gained by allowing 
annuals of any kind to stand close together. A few useful kinds are : 
achilleaefolia, 12 inches high with blue flowers (the variety alba has 
white flowers) ; androsacea, a variable plant 6 to 12 inches high, with 
lilac, pink, or white blossoms ; capitata, 9 inches high, flowers 
lavender; dianthoides, 6 inches high, with lilac blossoms; tricolor, a 
variable plant with varieties bearing blue, white, pink, or rose flowers, 
several colours or shades appear in the same flower. 

Gillenia. — Two herbaceous perennials are found in this genus 
(Natural Order Rosaceae) — Gillenia stipulacea, sometimes called 
American Ipecacuanha, and trifoliata, which is known as Indian 
Physic. Both are North American plants and are closely allied to 
Spiraea, the points of distinction being more apparent to the botanist 
than to the gardener. The roots have medicinal properties which 
are said to be very similar to those of Ipecacuanha, but the plants 
are grown here for ornamental gardening alone. They should be 
planted in the herbaceous border in well-manured soil, and may 
then be expected to grow about 3 feet high. They may have red 
or white flowers, according to the variety. Propagation is by division 
of the clumps in spring. 

Ginkgo biloba {Maidenhair Tree). — This Conifer (Natural Order 
Coniferae) is sometimes called Sahsburia adiantifolia, and is a native 
of China. It is of very ornamental appearance, and quite distinct 
from any other tree known. Belonging to one of the few groups 
of deciduous Conifers, it differs from many of the evergreen kinds by 
being suitable for town gardens. Of upright, though graceful habit, 
it forms a tree go or 100 feet high, numerous specimens in this country 
being upwards of 60 feet in height. Although it is not uncommon, 
it might be planted more frequently, for it makes a handsome lawn 
specimen, and is quite hardy. Its peculiar interest centres in its 
foliage, for the bright green leaves are large and flat, bearing a striking 
resemblance to a gigantic pinnule of the frond of a Maidenhair Fern, 
hence the popular name of Maidenhair Tree. The fruits, which are 
rarely produced in this country, are golden and plum-like when ripe, 
the central seed being surrounded by pulp. Male and female flowers 
arc on different trees. It might be used with advantage for avenues. 



GLADIOLUS 201 

its habit of growth being pecuHarly appropriate for the purpose. 
Plant in ordinary garden soil, and prune in summer to keep the trees 
shapely. Increase is by imported seeds. 

Gladiolus is a very important group of flowering plants, for it 
includes not only a wide selection of decorative kinds, but also several 
distinct races of hybrids, each of which contains many showy sorts. 
Gladiolus belongs to the Iris family (Irideae), and most of the kinds 
are natives of South Africa, a few being found in Southern Europe, 
Asia Minor, etc. All are herbaceous in character, and the rootstock 
consists of a corm somewhat similar to that of the Crocus, though, 
of course, much larger, each corm being capable of producing a vigor- 
ous central shoot, and if that should be injured, several weaker shoots 
from donnant buds. This peculiarity has been taken advantage of 
by florists, and to produce extra plants of choice varieties the corms 
are divided up into sections, each one containing a dormant bud. 
These, if placed in sand, soon emit roots and shoots, and are then 
planted in soil in the ordinary way. Another convenient method of 
increasing new varieties is available in addition to that of dividing a 
vigorous root, for many tiny bulbils are formed about the base of 
each. By carefully collecting these and planting them in a bed of 
light, sandy soil containing leaf-mould, quantities of plants are soon 
produced. It is a good plan to make up a bed in a cold frame for 
this purpose. Species and new varieties are raised from seed. The 
seed should be sown in boxes or pans of sandy soil as soon as ripe, 
preferably in a light and warm frame or greenhouse. As soon as 
the young leaves are 2 or 3 inches high, the plants are pricked out 
from I to 2 inches apart each way in a bed of well-drained soil. Here 
they are allowed to remain for two or three years, according to their 
vigour, and are then taken up and sorted. A cold frame should be 
provided for the purpose. 

As the majority of the Gladioli are rather tender in most districts, 
it is inadvisable to leave them in the ground throughout winter. 
Rather lift them before the tops have fully withered in autumn, 
dry the roots, remove the dead tops, clear away any dirt, and store 
them in a cool but frost-proof room or shed until the following spring. 
The best time to plant is late March or early April. Any rich garden 
soil is suitable, the stronger growing kinds thriving in moderately 
heavy soil, whilst the weaker ones prefer soil of a lighter nature which 
is well drained. A light, open position is essential, and they may 
often be used with satisfactory results as clumps in thin shrubberies 
or to furnish beds which contain early flowering herbaceous plants. 
They are also effective in the herbaceous border. The corms are 



202 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

usually placed from 9 to 12 inches apart, and are covered with about 
3 inches of soil. In heavy ground it is wise to place a little coarse 
sand under each root. In land that has been manured the plants 
grow vigorously, but in poor soil two or three applications of liquid 
manure during the growing season are beneficial. Wlien inflorescences 
are to be exhibited this feeding process should begin as soon as the 
roots are really active. Where summer drought is experienced a 
mulch of well-decayed manure and leaves may be applied in May 
with advantage. 

The hardier species are : atroviolaceus, a purplish- flowered plant 
from Syria, etc. ; byzantinus, native of the Mediterranean region, 
2 feet high, bears reddish-purple flowers, and may be naturalised in 
the warmer counties, it is sometimes called the Turkish Corn Flag ; 
segetum, the common Corn Flag of the Mediterranean region, has 
purplish flowers. All these may be left in the ground throughout 
winter. 

Other groups are as follows : 

Gladiolus Colvillei. — This grows about 2 feet high and bears crim- 
son-purple flowers on graceful inflorescences. It is typical of a small- 
flowered group which blossoms early (May and June), and is invalu- 
able for cutting ; large quantities of flowers are grown for market 
purposes, and many corms are planted in pots for greenhouse decora- 
tion. Rosens, with salmon-rose flowers with deeper-coloured stripes, 
and The Bride, with white flowers, are effective varieties of this group. 
These are fairly hardy and may be planted in autumn. 

Gladiolus cardinalis is a South African kind with branched in- 
florescences of large bright scarlet flowers, with a few blotches of 
white on the lower segments. Its varieties bloom during July. A few 
good sorts are : Blushing Bride, ivory-white with crimson marks ; 
Crimson Queen, scarlet-crimson with carmine and white marks ; 
Fairy Queen, salmon-rose with white blotches and crimson margin ; 
Favourite, salmon-rose with cream-coloured blotches and crimson 
margin ; General Scott, white, shaded rose ; Peach Blossom, rosy- 
blush blotched rose and cream ; Rose Queen, soft rose, blotched 
with blood-red, eye cream. 

Gladiolus hrenchleyensis. — This, like Gladiolus gandavensis, is a 
garden hybrid raised by crossing psittacinus and cardinalis. Both 
have large, rich, scarlet flowers in long, dense spikes. They are 
much alike, but hrenchleyensis is said to bloom before the other. 
Of gandavensis there are numerous forms with red, scarlet, crimson, 
and rose colouring ; also others with white and yellow grounds with 
markings of other colours. They may be procured cheaply as un- 





THE CREEPING GYPSOPHILA 
REPENS ROSEA 



GOAT'S RUE (GALEGA HARTLANDI) 




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GROUNDS 



A HANDSOME TORCH LILY 
(KNIPHOFIA CAULESCENS) 



GLAUCIUM 203 

named varieties. One, called Mikado, brought to notice within the 
last few years, produces very fine spikes of flowers in which blush- 
rose, cream, crimson, and primrose are blended. 

Gladiolus Lemoinei is the type of a group of hybrids raised by 
crossing gandavensis with purpureo-auratus. The flowers are rather 
small, slightly hooded, and bear conspicuous blotches upon yellow, 
purple, or white ground. A few good ones are : Docteur Kegel, 
Fust ell de Coulanger, Hippolyta, Lafayette, J. J. Weiss, Vesuve. It 
is advisable, however, to purchase unnamed varieties ; they are quite 
as beautiful and much cheaper. 

Gladiolus nanceianus, like the last-named, is a hybrid raised by 
the late M. Lemoine, of Nancy. Its parents were Lemoinei and 
Saundersii, The flowers are large and richly coloured. Very good 
selections of unnamed kinds can be procured. 

Gladiolus Childsii is the type of another group of hybrids raised 
by crossing gandavensis varieties with Saundersii. They are vigorous 
and free-flowering, with very large bright-coloured flowers. Named 
varieties are offered in bulb lists. Gladiolus primulinus is a com- 
paratively new kind from the Zambesi, with primrose-yellow blooms. 

A showy hybrid between Childsii and gandavensis is found in the 
new Gladiolus America. The flowers are very large and flesh-pink, 
tinged with lavender. Many of the stronger growing kinds of Gladioli 
grow between 3 and 4 feet high, and need to be carefully staked. 

Glastonbury Thorn. — {See Crataegus.) 

Glaucium {Homed Poppy). — This group of Poppies (Natural Order 
Papaveraceae) consists of annual, biennial, and perennial border plants 
which have showy flowers. They are popularly termed Horned 
Poppies, and are found wild in Europe and Asia Minor. Seeds of 
annuals and perennials should be sown in the positions where the 
plants are to flower, the former being sown in March, to flower the 
same year, and the others in July, to bloom the foHowing year. The 
seeds are sown thinly in ordinary garden soil, and the seedlings thinned 
so that they are 6 or 7 inches apart each way. Two of the commonest 
species are corniculatum with orange-red flowers, and its variety 
rubrum with red flowers ; and flavum, a yellow- flowered plant which 
has several varieties, notably fulvum and tricolor. Some of the 
species included at one time in this family may now be found under 
Chelidonium. The Horned Poppies may be used with effect as under- 
growth for thin shrubberies. 

Glaux maritima {Sea Milkwort). — A dwarf-growing perennial, 
native of Europe, including the British Isles. It belongs to the 
Primula family (Primulaceae), and is known as the Sea Milkwort. 



204 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

It grows from 6 to lo inches in licight, and is found tlirougliout the 
country in the vicinity of the sea, and is pretty when its pink fiowers 
are open. It is hardly, however, a plant to recommend for gardens. 

Gleditschia {Locust Tree). — Trees belonging to the Pea family 
(Leguminosae), and natives of North America, China, and Japan. 
The majority have spiny branches and trunks, the spines in some 
cases being 6 to 9 inches long and many times branched. Even from 
old trunks of some kinds spines are continually appearing, and they 
grow to their full size in one season. The trees are ornamental by 
reason of their handsome leaves being divided into a large number 
of tiny, bright green leaflets. The July flowers are not showy, but 
they are succeeded by long, flat pods, sometimes i foot in length, which 
are brown when ripe. They thrive in the Midlands and southern 
counties in ordinary garden soil, are increased by seeds, and when 
young should be pruned regularly in summer in order to reduce ex- 
cessive side growth and encourage the lengthening of the main axis. 
Gleditschia triacanthos is the commonest and the hardiest, it forms 
a moderate sized tree, and is a native of the Eastern United States ; 
aquatica and texana are other useful American species; whilst Delavaj'i, 
macracantha, and sinensis from China, and japonica from Japan, 
may also be grown. 

Globe Flower.— (5^5 Trollius.) 

Globe Thistle. — (See Echinops.) 

Globularia (Globe Daisy). — Herbaceous perennials or dwarf 
shrubs (Natural Order Selaginaceae). They are known as Globe 
Daisies, and Globularia vulgaris is sometimes called the Blue Daisy.- 
Several are natives of Europe, and are available for the herbaceous 
border or rockery. Their flowers are in small, rounded heads and 
open in June and July. Plant in sheltered and moist positions in 
light loamy soil, and increase the herbaceous kinds by seeds in 
spring, or by division in early autumn. Globularia cordifolia is a 
dwarf plant with blue flowers ; nana, trichosantha and vulgaris also 
have blue flowers. 

Gnaphallum.— There are several species of Gnaphalium (which 
belongs to the Daisy family, Compositae), chiefly low-growing plants 
with grey foliage, the flowers being surrounded by dry bracts which 
last in good condition for a long period and are sometimes called 
Everlasting Flowers. They grow in ordinary soil, and may be used 
in the herbaceous border or rock garden. A few kinds are : indicum, 
luteo-album, and uliginosum. All are widely distributed. None is 
of much decorative value. 

Goat's Rue.— {See Galega.) 



GODETIA 205 

Godetia. — The Godetias belong to the Evening Primrose family 
(Onagraceae), and are closely allied to and sometimes included in 
Oenothera (the Evening Primrose). They are among the most beau- 
tiful of hardy annuals, they require rich soil, and the seeds may either 
be sown in the position the plants are to occupy, or in boxes under 
glass in March or early April, the seedlings being pricked out in boxes 
for permanent planting towards the end of May. Seeds may be sown 
out-of-doors between the middle of March and the end of April. 
In either case the plants must not be allowed to stand closer than 
9 inches, for they grow li to 2 feet high and branch freely. Godetia 
rubicunda, from California, sometimes called Oenothera amoena, is 
the most important kind ; there are several varieties, the following 
being particularly attractive : Lady Albemarle, crimson, dwarf ; 
Bijou, red and white ; Bridesmaid, rose and white ; Duchess of Albany, 
white ; General Gordon, crimson ; gloriosa, red ; La Belle, rose ; 
Lady Satin Rose, rose ; Perle, carmine ; Rosamunde, rose ; The 
Bride, white with carmine marks ; Princess of Wales, ruby and 
crimson. 

Golden Feather.— {See Pyrethrum.) 

Goodyera. — A group of hardy and tender Orchids (Natural Order 
Orchidaceae). Several hardy kinds are grown in this country, and 
one is a native. The British plant is Goodyera repens, found in 
light, loose soil amongst the fallen needles of the Scots Pine, in Scot- 
land. When in flower in summer it may be anything between 4 and 
7 inches high, the fragrant flowers being creamy white. It is a rather 
difficult plant to establish, and the best way to form a plantation is 
to convey deep turves containing healthy plants from one Pine wood 
to another. Two North American sorts, pubescens, the Adder's Violet, 
and Menziesii, the Rattlesnake Plantain, may be grown in a moist 
position in peaty soil in the rock garden. Several of the tropical 
kinds are noted for their beautifully marked leaves. 

Gordonia is closely allied to Stuartia and Camellia, and belongs 
to the Natural Order Ternstroemiaceae. Two kinds, Lasianthus and 
pubescens, both from the Southern United States, have been intro- 
duced to this country, but they are only suitable for out-of-doors in 
the mildest parts, and there appreciate the protection of a wall. 
Both are evergreen bushes bearing showy white flowers in July and 
August, which have a somewhat similar appearance to those of a 
single Camellia. They may be grown in the same way as the latter, 
and are usually increased from imported seeds. No regular pruning 
is necessary. When grown as greenhouse plants they give the best 
results in a border in a light, airy structure. 



206 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Qorse. — {See Ulex.) 

Gourd. — (See CucuRBiTA.) 

Grape Hyacinth. — (See Muscari.) 

Grevillea. — This is an interesting and decorative group of semi- 
tender evergreen shrubs belonging to the Natural Order Proteaceae. 
They are natives of Australia, and about the middle of last century 
were amongst the most popular of greenhouse plants. Modern heat- 
ing arrangements and the introduction of numerous quick-growing 
plants for greenhouse decoration have almost supplanted them 
and others which were known collectively to our grandparents as 
New Holland plants. A few kinds are, however, still grown under 
glass, while two or three are distinctly popular outdoor shrubs in the 
warmer parts of the country. Grevillea robusta, a handsome decora- 
tive foliage plant, is the commonest greenhouse kind, and may also 
be used out-of-doors for sub-tropical bedding in summer. It is easily 
raised from seeds sown in warmth in spring. The two best for out- 
of-doors are the yellow-flowered Grevillea juniperina and the red- 
flowered rosmarinifolia. Both form wide-spreading bushes 4 to 5 feet 
high in ordinarily good garden soil, and require no regular pruning. 
They are rarely without flowers. 

Griselinia.— This group contains two useful evergreen bushes 
suitable for the warmer parts of the country, which are members of 
the Dogwood family (Cornaceae). They are Griselinia littoralis and 
lucida, both natives of New Zealand. The former is the hardier kind, 
and is one of the most conspicuous evergreens of Cornish gardens ; 
it is usually found as a shapely bush between 12 and 40 feet high 
with a considerable diameter, the branches being retained from base 
to summit with little or no attention to training. The rounded 
glossy green leaves are about 3 inches long. Ordinary garden soil 
suits it, and it may be increased by layers, cuttings, or seeds. Numer- 
ous seedlings may often be found beneath the old plants. If growing 
too luxuriantly, the branches may be pruned back during summer. 
Griselinia lucida is recognised by its rather stiffer habit and larger 
and thicker oval leaves, which are sometimes between 5 and 6 inches 
long. It should only be planted in sheltered places. 

Gunnera manicata is the most conspicuous plant in this genus 
(Natural Order Haloraginaceae). Although a native of Brazil, it 
is hardy in many parts of the British Isles, but should have a little 
protection in spring just when the new leaves are appearing. In 
general appearance the plant resembles a gigantic Rhubarb, and 
in Cornwall and Ireland, where it attains its greatest luxuriance, the 
leaf-stalks are sometimes from 7 to g feet long, and the blades of 





A HARDY ORCHID (HABENARIA 



THE STRIKING HERACLEUM 
GIGANTEUM 





DAY LILY (HEMEROCALLIS FULVAJ 



PINK ANNUAL HAWKWEED 
(HIERACIUM) 



GYMNOCLADUS 207 

the leaves from 9 to ii feet across. In other locahties, the leaves 
are often 6 or 7 feet across. It thrives in rich loamy soil to which 
cow manure has been added, and should be given a generous top- 
dressing of cow manure each spring. The proper position for it is 
in moist soil on the banks of a lake or stream, for preference, where 
the roots can enter the water and the crown stand clear. Propaga- 
tion is by division of the crowns in spring. Sections containing small 
dormant buds and a few roots grow readily, but they take several 
years to attain their finest proportions. Large cone-like inflorescences 
appear during spring and early summer. They, however, must be 
removed at once, or they will weaken the plant. Other species are : 
bracteata, chilensis, magellanica, and perpensa. In the case of hard 
frost being experienced in winter, it is wise to cover the crowns of 
Gunnera manicata with leaves and spruce branches. 

Gymnocladus.— There are two kinds of Gymnocladus : cana- 
densis, the Kentucky Coffee Tree of North America, and chinensis, 
from China ; they belong to the Pea family (Leguminosae). The 
former is the hardier and commoner tree, the other only being avail- 
able for the milder counties. Gymnocladus canadensis grows from 
40 to 80 feet high, and is remarkable for the white or greyish bark 
of the younger shoots and for its handsome doubly pinnate leaves. 
On young specimens the leaves are sometimes 3 feet long. One of 
the finest examples in the country is growing at Claremont, in Surrey. 
The seeds have sometimes been used in Canada as a substitute for 
coffee, whilst those of the Chinese kind have soapy qualities. Warm, 
well-drained loamy soil is suitable, increase is by seeds, and pruning 
is confined to regulating the branches of young trees so that they 
do not interfere with the leading shoots. Such pruning may be 
carried out during summer. 

Gynerium. — {See Cortaderia.) 

Gypsophila {Chalk Plant). — This is a rather large group of plants 
belonging to the Pink family (Caryophyllaceae), but one kind far 
exceeds all others in value. That is Gypsophila paniculata, a native 
of Europe, etc. It is widely grown for decorative gardening, the 
peculiarly graceful inflorescences of tiny white flowers being very 
popular in the flower border or for adding lightness and grace to floral 
decorations composed chiefly of more highly-coloured and heavier 
flowers. It is of perennial duration, and may be increased either by 
seeds or division. Any good garden soil appears to suit it, and at 
maturity it is from 2 to 2| feet high with a head of considerable width. 
Deep soil must, however, be provided, and lime or chalk is an advan- 
tage. Once estabhshed, a clump will continue to provide a harvest 



2o8 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

of flowers for many years. As the roots are long and woody, it is 
not advisable to transplant them oftener than is absolutely necessary. 
In addition to the type there is a double-flowered form. A few other 
useful kinds are : Arrostii, libanotica, perfoliata, and repens. The 
last-named is a charming low-growing plant for the rockery in well- 
drained sandy loam. Gypsophila elegans is a pretty little annual 
with wliite flowers. 

Habenaria. — Many members of this group of Orchids (Natural 
Order Orchidaceae), that is to say, those which are natives of the 
temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, are quite hardy in 
this country. They need a moist, peaty soil, and should be planted 
in a partially shaded spot. The chief hardy kinds are : bifolia (Butter- 
fl3^ Orchis), native of Britain, which from the centre of two wide- 
spreading leaves sends up a stem 12 inches high, bearing several white, 
sweet-scented flowers ; blephariglottis, a North American kind, has 
white flowers with beautifully fringed lip ; another from the same 
region is ciliaris, with pretty fringed yellow flowers ; conopsea has 
whitish blossoms ; the lilac-purple fringed flowers of fimbriata are 
very pretty, so, too, are the rich purple blooms of psycodes. An 
exceedingly curious plant is the British Frog Orchis (Habenaria viridis), 
with quaint green flowers ; it thrives under drier conditions than 
the others. All the Habenarias grow from 12 to 18 inches high, and 
flower in summer, chiefly in June ; they are increased by dividing 
the roots in late summer. 

Haberlea rhodopensls. — A pretty little alpine plant, belonging 
to the Gloxinia family (Gcsneraceae), from the mountains of Greece. 
It forms a rosette of leaves, and bears in June or July pale lilac-coloured 
flowers on a spike about 6 inches high. It should be planted in a 
damp, shady crevice on the rockwork, in sandy peat, and can be 
increased by seeds sown in the spring in a shady frame. 

Habranthus pratensis. — (See Hippeastrum pratense.) 

Hacquetia Epipactis. — This, the only member of the genus 
(which belongs to the Natural Order Umbelliferae), is a pretty little 
alpine perennial that reaches a height of about 4 inches. The leaves 
are composed of three leaflets, and the small yellow flowers, in tiny 
umbels, appear in spring. It should be planted in the rockery in 
light loamy soil, and resents being disturbed ; it may be increased 
by division, which must be very carefully carried out in early spring. 
Though a native of several parts of Europe, it is very seldom met with. 

Hair Grass.— (S^^^J AiRA.) 

Halesia (Snowdrop Tree). — The best-known member of this group 
(Natural Order Styraceae) is Halesia tetraptera, the Silver Bell or 



HALIMODENDRON ARGENTEUM 209 

Snowdrop Tree of gardens. Several other kinds have, however, been 
known for many years under this name, but all are not strictly 
Halesias. Those from North America are now called Halesia, and 
those from China and Japan Pterostyrax. Their nearest ally in the 
outdoor garden is Styrax. The Silver Bell or Snowdrop Tree forms 
a bushy specimen, usually between 15 and 25 feet high, although it 
grows three or four times as high in the United States. It is popular 
by reason of its profusion of white bell-like flowers, which appear 
in June. Halesia parvifiora, from Georgia and Florida, is quite as 
beautiful, while it has the advantage of flowering freely as a bush 
4 to 6 feet high. Other true Halesias are : tetraptera Mechani, with 
larger flowers than the type, and diptera, a showy kind from the 
Southern United States. The Halesias like rich loamy soil, in which 
a little leaf-mould or peat has been dug. They should be given posi- 
tions sheltered from cold winds, are increased by seeds or layers, and 
only require sufficient pruning to keep them shapely, that being 
carried out after the flowers have fallen. 

Halimodendron argenteum, the Salt Tree of Siberia, belongs 
to the Pea family (Leguminosae). It is of shrubby growth, with 
many long, thin branches clothed with small greyish leaves, and bears 
a profusion of pinkish flowers in May. In addition to being a showy 
bush, it is well adapted for planting in ground impregnated with 
salt. In its native habitat it is common on the salty plains. As a 
rule, it is grafted standard high in this country upon stocks of the 
Siberian Caragana arborescens, though it may also be grown on 
its own roots from seeds. As a bush it is useful for planting amongst 
rocks over which its branches may ramble at will, and for this pur- 
pose it might well find greater use in the vicinity of the sea. When 
grafted, it may be grown in any ordinary garden soil. Pruning is 
unnecessary. 

Hamamelis {Witch Hazel). — A very showy and popular group 
of hardy shrubs or small trees, natives of China, Japan and North 
America (Natural Order Hamamelidaceae). The majority blossom 
during December, January, or February, according to season, although 
they arc usually at their best during the two latter months. One 
species, virginica, however, blooms during October and November. 
Although better adapted to the conditions prevailing in southern 
than in northern gardens, these shrubs are sufficiently hardy to sur- 
vive and give good results in most parts of the British Isles. The 
popular name of Witch Hazel is applied to the various kinds, although 
there is really no connection between them and the Hazels. With 
one exception, the flowers are peculiar by reason of their narrow, 

o 



210 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

twisted, strange-looking petals ; they are produced from buds on 
all parts of the younger growths, and are in such profusion as almost 
to hide the leafless branches. Plant in well-drained loamy soil con- 
taining a little peat, and provide sheltered positions exposed to full 
sun. Most of the kinds may be increased by seeds, or the better ones 
may be grafted upon stocks of the common Hamamelis virginica. 
The only pruning required is a little now and then to shape the 
plants. This must be done directly the flowers fall. 

A selection of species is as follows : arborea, a Japanese bush or 
small tree with rich golden blossoms, usually borne during January 
and February, the calyx lobes are red ; japonica, a bushier kind 
with golden petals and green calyx lobes — the var. Zuccariniana has 
lemon-coloured flowers. Mollis is a vigorous Chinese bush or small 
tree, with large oval leaves and handsome, golden, Primrose-scented 
flowers, which have straight petals with hooked ends : it blooms 
during December and January, and is the best of all. Virginica is a 
North American kind, which blooms in late autumn before the fall 
of the leaves ; vernalis, also from America, blossoms in spring. The 
leaves of most kinds change to a pretty golden hue before they fall. 

Hare Bell. — {See CAMPANULA ROTUNDIFOLIA.) 

Hare Bell, Australian. — (See Wahlenbergia.) 

Harpallum.^ — {See Helianthus.) 

Hart's Tongue Fern. — {See Scolopendrium.) 

Hawkweed. — {See Hieracium.) 

Hawthorn.— (Se^ Crataegus.) 

Heartsease.— (5^e Viola tricolor.) 

Heath. — {See Erica.) 

Hedera {Ivy). — A popular class of shrubs (Natural Order Arali- 
aceae), usually of traihng habit. The most important kind is Hedera 
Plelix, the Common Ivy of Europe, North Africa, and North Asia, 
a plant found wild in many parts of the British Isles. There are, 
however, one or two others in cultivation, though they are some- 
times included as varieties of Hedera Helix. The chief are himalaica 
and coriacea (or colchica, as it is sometimes called) ; the last-named 
is the parent of many of those kinds which have very large, thick 
leaves. The chief attraction of the Ivy is its evergreen foliage, though 
the yellowish flowers in autumn and dark fruits in winter are also 
showy. A peculiarity of the Ivy is its change of habit under certain 
conditions. As is well known, it ascends walls and trees by attach- 
ing its branches to the surface by means of aerial roots, but when 
the top of the support is reached the trailing habit disappears, and 
bush form is assumed. It is in this state that it flowers and fruits, 




THE OLD DOUBLE WHITE ROCKET 



HEDYCHIUM 211 

neither being found on the trailing branches. By propagating from 
these bushy parts excellent little evergreens have been obtained. 

As is well known, the Ivy is a very variable plant, and not only 
do the leaves differ widely in shape, but also in colouring. Many 
have been given varietal names, and kinds with green, and gold and 
silver variegated leaves may be procured. Fortunately, the various 
kinds of Ivy may be grown in both town and country gardens, and 
they are available for a variety of purposes. Nothing is better for 
covering bare walls in bad positions, whether facing north, south, 
east, or west. They are equally useful for clothing the ground be- 
neath shady trees, where grass will not grow, for planting against 
pillars, over old tree roots, against dead trees, or as informal fences 
trained on pillars and chains, etc. ; whilst the bush forms may be 
used about the garden as ordinary evergreens. All kinds of soil come 
ahke to the common kinds, but the less vigorous varieties should be 
given good loam. Propagation of the trailing sorts is by cuttings, 
indoors or in an open border. The bush forms may be either rooted 
from cuttings or be grafted upon rooted cuttings of the strong, trail- 
ing Irish Ivy. Ivy grown against house walls should be cut well 
back early in April each year ; that growing against ruins must be 
left unpruned. When pruning I\^ on walls it should be cut back 
each year well below the gutters, otherwise it is liable to get between 
the slates and injure the roofs. Bush Ivies simply require to have 
the flowering shoots shortened in spring. 

The chief sorts are : Helix, of which the varieties algeriensis, angu- 
laris, azorica, canariensis (Irish Ivj^), and maderensis have large green 
leaves ; Caenwoodiana, conglomerata, crenata, deltoidea, digitata, 
gracilis, minima, minor, and triloba, small green leaves ; nigra and 
purpurea, purplish leaves ; Angularis aurea, aurantiaca, aurea elegan- 
tissima, chrysocarpa, and chrysomela, golden leaves, and Crippsii 
maculata, maderensis variegata and variegata, have silver variegated 
leaves. The bush forms are found under the name of arborescens ; 
gold, silver, and green kinds of these can be obtained. 

Of varieties of other species the following have very large leaves : 
coriacea, amurensis, dentata, and gigantea. Hedera himalaica is a 
handsome kind also. 

Hedychium. — The Hedychiums, which belong to the Natural 
Order Scitamineae, are natives chiefly of tropical Asia, and, with one 
exception, unfit for growing out-of-doors. This is Hedychium Gard- 
nerianum, which passes the winter in a dormant state, and sends 
up a leafy spike about 4 feet high, terminated by a dense raceme 
of pale yellow, highly fragrant blossoms in the summer. This plant 



212 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

is a near relative of the Canna, and needs a warm spot, such as a narrow 
border in front of a greenhouse facing south. If the crowns are pro- 
tected by a few leaves in winter they will be safe. Hedychium may 
be wintered safe from frost, hke the Canna, and planted out in the 
garden during summer in a warm, sunny spot. 

Hedysarum. — Chiefly herbaceous perennials, belonging to the 
Pea family (Leguminosae), natives of the temperate regions of the 
Northern Hemisphere. One, Hedysarum multijugum, is a valuable 
summer-flowering shrub. The more vigorous kinds will thrive in 
deep, loamy soil, while the smaller ones are suitable for the rockery. 
Hedysarum coronarium (French Honeysuckle) is most commonly 
seen ; it grows 3 feet high, and bears racemes of deep red flowers 
during summer. Other species are : neglectum, a dwarf plant with 
purple-crimson flowers, suitable for the rockery ; obscurum, another 
low growing rock garden plant, with rosy-crimson blossoms, and 
sibiricum, purple flowered, 2 feet high, suitable for the herbaceous 
border. The shrubby kind, multijugum, forms a spreading bush 
about 4 feet in height, with slender zigzag branches clothed with 
hoary pinnate leaves, and bears, during July, long racemes of purple 
Pea-shaped blossoms ; it flowers best in a warm, well-drained loamy 
soil. Cut the younger shoots back about half-way in February, 
and at the same time peg down a number of the branches to within 
a few inches of the ground. Hedysarums are increased by seeds 
or by division of the roots in early spring. 

Helen! um {Sneeze Wort). — Hardy perennials, members of the 
Daisy family (Compositae), and natives of North America. They 
are valuable for the herbaceous border, where they yield a fine show 
of bloom late in summer and early autumn. They thrive in ordinary 
garden soil, and should be divided every two or three years in early 
spring. The best kinds are : autumnale, pale yellow ; autumnale 
striatum, coppery-crimson striped with orange ; Riverton Beauty, 
with lemon-coloured flowers ; and Riverton Gem, terra-cotta tint, 
changing afterwards to red. The two last-named are very beautiful 
varieties of autumnale and splendid border plants. All those named 
grow 5 or 6 feet high. The dwarf cr kinds, pumilum and magnificum, 
reach a height of only 2 feet ; their flowers are rich yellow, and freely 
produced in July. The other species are : Bigelovii, light yellow, 
brown centre, 2 feet ; Bolanderii, pale yellow, black disc, 2 feet ; 
and Hoopesii, the earliest to bloom, large, deep yellow flowers, 2 feet. 

Helianthemum {Stcn Rose).- — Low-growing, wide-spreading plants, 
natives of Europe, etc. (Natural Order Cistaceae). They are well 
adapted for planting on dry, sunny banks, on or in the crevices of 



HELIANTHUS 213 

loose stone walls, for rock gardens, and other places, but they must 
be given a sunny position. The most familiar kind is the common 
Sun Rose, vulgare, a yellow- flowered, almost prostrate plant found 
wild in many parts of the country. Under cultivation it has developed 
a great many variations from the type, which are distinguished by 
more vigorous growth ; by flowers varying from white to deep golden 
and from pink to deep red, some being single and others double ; or 
by variegated foliage. The varieties are increased by cuttings in- 
serted in a frame in July, but if seeds from the varieties are sown 
vigorous plants bearing flowers of many colours are obtained. They 
give the best results when planted in poor soil, but after 5 or 6 years 
they usually begin to deteriorate, and should then be replaced by 
young plants. Pruning should take the form of removing the flower 
spikes as soon as the flowers fade. The best kinds are : vulgare, 
of which the following are good varieties : crocatum, croceum, croceum 
flora pleno. Yellow Standard and serpyllifolium, yellow ; cupreum, 
copper ; Fireball, red ; venustum, red ; rhodanthum, red ; roseum 
and roseum multiplex, rose ; album, white. 

Helianthemum alyssoides grows i| to 2 feet high, and bears yellow 
flowers ; formosum is quite as vigorous ; its flowers are yellow, with 
a dark blotch at the base of each petal ; ocymoides is a strong-growing, 
yellow-flowered kind from Spain and Portugal ; polifolium has forms 
with pink and white flowers ; and umbellatum bears white blossoms. 

Helianthus {Sunflower). — The Sunflowers, which belong to the 
Daisy family (Compositae), and are natives of North America, may 
be divided into two classes : the perennials, valuable border flowers 
for late summer and in autumn, and the annuals, most famihar 
of which is the common Sunflower (Helianthus annuus). Among 
perennial Sunflowers special mention must be made of Helianthus 
multiflorus and its varieties, particularly the double-flowered forms, 
which reach a height of 4 to 5 feet. The best are Bouquet d'or and 
Soleil d'or, both double flowered, quite distinct from each other ; a 
very fine single flower is maximus. Another species, rigidus (Prairie 
Sunflower), used formerly to be known as Harpalium rigidum. Whereas 
the root system of Helianthus multiflorus is fairly compact and the 
plant spreads little, the underground rhizomes of Helianthus rigidus 
spread rapidly, and soon form a dense, tangled mass, and the plant 
may prove to be a very troublesome weed if not restricted. Never- 
theless, it is decorative and useful for cutting, as the flowers have 
firm, wiry stems, and keep fresh in water for a long time. The different 
varieties of rigidus attain a height of 6 to 8 feet ; the best are : Daniel 
Dewar, deep yellow, and Miss Hellish, bright yellow, semi-double: 



214 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

other perennial species are : decapetalus, small, lemon-yellow 
flowers ; mollis, light yellow, black disc ; and orgyalis, tall stems, 
clothed with long, narrow leaves and small bright yellow flowers. 

The annual kinds, even when represented only by the common 
Sunflower, form a striking feature in the garden. There are several 
pretty and comparatively dwarf varieties now in cultivation, varying 
from 3 to 4 feet in height ; some have single and some double flowers. 

A new race of annual Sunflowers has made its appearance within 
recent years. It originated in America as a cross between the common 
annual Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) and the wild Sunflower of 
North America (Helianthus lenticularis). The basal portion of the 
florets is of chestnut-red colour, extending in some to such an extent 
that the yellow is limited to the tips of the petals. The general appear- 
ance of the flower suggests at a little distance a large Gaillardia. 
Annual Sunflowers are readily raised from seed sown in the open 
ground in spring, while the perennial sorts can be increased to any 
extent by division of the clumps in autumn. 

Helichrysum (Everlasting Flower). — While the Helichrysums 
(Natural Order Compositae) contain both annuals and perennials, 
chief interest is centred in the annual kinds, consisting mainly of 
the numerous forms of Helichrysum bracteatum. These, which grow 
about 3 feet high, bear a profusion of Daisy-like flowers, in colours 
ranging from pure white to bright crimson. Apart from their beauty 
in the flower garden, these blossoms are extremely useful for winter 
decoration when cut and dried. It is essential that the flowers are 
cut and hung up to dry while they are still fresh. Helichrysums may 
be sown out-of-doors in April. A light, warm border suits them best, 
as might be expected from the fact that bracteatum, the species from 
whence they have sprung, is a native of Australia. Helichrysum belli- 
dioides is an alpine of prostrate growth that bears during the sum- 
mer pretty white Daisy-like flowers. It is of a perennial character, and 
thrives in well-drained light soil and a sunny spot or in the moraine. 

Heliopsis [Orange Sunflower). — Sunflower-like plants (Natural 
Order Compositae), natives of North America. They are as amenable 
to cultivation as the different sorts of Helianthus. The chief kinds 
are : laevis, bright orange, 4 feet ; scabra, orange-yellow, 4 feet ; 
and its varieties, Ladhams, an extra fine sort ; Pitcherianus, bright 
orange, and semi-plenus. All bloom in July and August. 

Heliotrope. — [See Heliotropium.) 

Heliotropium {Cherry Pie). — ^The Heliotropes, that form such a de- 
lightful feature in our gardens in summer, are all forms of the South 
American Heliotropium peruvianum, and belong to the Borage family 




HOLLYHOCK PALLING BELLE 



HELIPTERUM 215 

(Boragineae). Apart from the beauty of their blossoms, which vary 
in colour from white or nearly so to deep purple, the Heliotropes are 
also remarkable for their fragrance. They are readily increased by 
cuttings of the young shoots taken in spring, dibbled in pots of sandy 
soil, and placed in a closed propagating case. Like the Fuchsia, 
the Heliotrope will, if kept free from frost during winter, grow rapidly 
in spring, and a good supply of cuttings is soon available. They 
are sometimes grown as standards for the flower garden, to obtain 
which the most vigorous are selected, and all shoots are removed until 
the desired height of stem is reached ; then they are allowed to 
branch out naturally. Care must be taken to remove any shoots 
that develop on the stem. When these have done duty in the flower 
garden during the summer they must be lifted in autumn, potted, 
and taken into the greenhouse. In spring, before growth recom- 
mences, any straggling shoots may be shortened. To obtain pyramid 
plants the main stem is tied upright, and the branches allowed to 
develop at will, just pinching out the points of any that are inclined 
to grow too far. Heliotrope may be raised from seed sown in a 
warm greenhouse in early spring. The best varieties are : President 
Garfield, mauve-purple ; Priapo, deep blue ; White Lady, nearly white ; 
Lord Roberts, metallic violet ; Miss Nightingale, dark purple ; and 
Madame de Bussy, blue, with a white centre. 

Helipterum {Immortelle). — Annuals belonging to the Daisy 
family (Compositae), with blossoms of an everlasting character. As 
a rule, the flowers are smaller than those of Helichrysum. They are 
very much used for wreaths, hence their popular name of Immortelle 
Flowers. They are readily dyed and are frequently seen of different 
colours in florists' shops. A distinct species is Helipterum Manglesii, 
which, under the name of Rhodanthe Manglesii, has long been a 
popular plant for growing in pots. It will, however, flower well if 
sown in a warm, sunny border in April, the bright satiny-pink flowers 
being very pleasing. All the Helipterums may be cut and dried 
in the same manner as Helichrysum. 

Hellebore. — {See Helleborus.) 

Helleborlne. — {See Epipactis.) 

Helleborus. — The Christmas Rose (Helleborus niger) and its 
varieties are among the choicest of hardy herbaceous plants, while 
the Lenten Roses (orientalis) and other species are also very beau- 
tiful. They belong to the Buttercup family (Ranunculaceae), and 
are natives chiefly of Europe and Asia Minor. The Christmas Rose 
needs a deep sandy loam, enriched with decayed manure, and likes 
partial shade. Various opinions have been given as to the most 



2i6 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

suitable time of the year for transplanting it, but most agree that 
some time in summer is most suitable — say July. This plant forms 
a compact clump, and has stout, thong-like roots. If the clumps 
are planted whole they often fail to become estabhshed, therefore 
they should be carefully broken up into pieces, each containing several 
crowns. The colour of the liowers of the various Christmas Roses 
is white, flushed more or less with rose. The chief varieties of Helle- 
borus niger are : angustifolius, Madame Fourcade, major and maximus, 
known also as altifolius. 

The Lenten Rose (Helleborus orientalis) is less particular in its 
requirements, and may be transplanted in autumn. A partially 
shaded situation suits it best. This grows from 12 to 18 inches high, 
and the flowers, borne in spring as indicated by the popular name, 
are white, rose, or purplish and freely spotted inside. Another species, 
viridis, which is a native of Britain, is variable, but the flowers are 
of some shade of green. Many hybrids between this and orientalis 
have been raised, and these, with varieties of orientalis, form a selec- 
tion of beautiful sorts. Chief among them are : Apotheker Bogren, 
crimson-purple, veined and spotted crimson ; C. Benary, white, 
spotted inside crimson ; Cupreus, dark plum ; Dr. Moore, bright 
rose ; F. C. Heinemann, purplish-rose, spotted crimson ; Frederick, 
white, pink spots ; Gertrude Jekyll, white ; Lalla Rookh, rose, 
spotted purple ; Mont Blanc, large white ; Ne Plus Ultra, purple ; 
Prince of Wales, rose with dark spots ; punctatissimus, purple, 
freely spotted deep purple ; roseus grandis, fine large rose ; and 
Rubra, deep red. Propagation of both Christmas and Lenten roses 
is by division of the roots at the times recommended for planting. 
They may also be raised from seeds sown as soon as ripe, but 
growth is slow. 

Helonias bullata. — A strange and rare perennial plant, belong- 
ing to the Lily family (Liliaceae), and native of North America ; the 
flower stem, 12 to 18 inches high, bears in June and July a spike of 
pretty pink flowers. In autumn the leaves turn to a bright red 
tint before they fall. The plant needs a moist, shady position in 
a peaty soil ; it can be increased by division, carried out in 
autumn. 

Helxine Solierolii. — A dense carpeting plant, very useful for 
flower beds in summer. It is native of Sardinia, and belongs to the 
Natural Order Urticaeae, and is often planted in the rock garden, 
where it spreads quickly. Frost rarely injures it, but in a wet winter 
it is liable to " damp off." The flowers and fruits are insignificant, 
its claim to recognition being its dense carpet of bright green. 



HEMEROCALLIS 



217 



Hemerocallls {Day Lily). — A free-growing race of perfectly hardy 
perennials that will thrive in any ordinary garden soil. They belong 
to the Lily family (Liliaceae), and are natives chiefly of Japan. They 
quickly form a tuft of strap-shaped leaves, and the flower spikes are 
3 or 4 feet high. The blossoms are chiefly some shade of yellow, 
and though individually they last but a day in bloom, a succession 
is kept up for a considerable time. They bloom from June to August: 
Hemerocallis is readily increased by division, carried out in autumn. 
The best are : aurantiaca major, rich orange ; disticha flore pleno, 
bronzy-yellow, double ; Dumortierii, rich yellow exterior, bronzy- 
orange interior, the dwarfest of 
all ; flava, bright clear yellow ; 
fulva, bronzy-buff ; fulva flore 
pleno, a double counterpart of the 
preceding ; and Thunbergii, bright 
3^ellow. 

Hemlock Spruce. — {See 

TSUGA.) 

Hemp.— (5^^ Cannabis.) 
Hemp Agrimony. — {See Eu- 

PATORIUM.) 

Hepatica. — {See Anemone 
Hepatic A.) 

Heracleum {Cow Parsnip). — 
Herbaceous perennials, belonging 
to the Natural Order Umbel- 
liferae ; few have any refinement, 
and the best are more fitted for 
the wild garden than for the 
border. The chief kinds are : 
giganteum, which forms a large tuft of much-divided spreading leaves, 
and in August the stout erect stem, 10 or 12 feet high, is termin- 
ated by a huge branching umbel of comparatively small whitish 
flowers. This plant frequently forms the subject of an advertise- 
ment in the newspapers, where it is described as bearing flowers the 
size of a cart-wheel. Another striking kind is Mantegazzianum, not 
so tall as giganteum ; it is recorded that an umbel of this has 
been counted containing 10,000 flowers. Both sorts will grow in 
almost any soil, but as their value depends to a great extent upon 
their size, manure should be added to the ground. They can be pro- 
pagated to any extent by means of seeds, or in a lesser degree by 
division, in autumn ; both are natives of the Caucasian region. 




THE CHRISTMAS ROSE 
(Helleborus niger) 



2i8 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Herb Lily.— (5^e Alstroemeria.) 

Herminium (Musk Orchis). — These are hardy Orchids (Natural 
Order Orchidaceae), natives of Europe, inchading Britain. Her- 
minium alpinum has Grass-like leaves, and a spike about o inches 
high of white flowers in early summer. The commonest species is 
Monorchis, which grows usually in dry, chalky soils : from a pair 
of basal leaves this pushes up a spike about 6 inches high, bearing 
several small greenish flowers of a pronounced musky odour. Though 
interesting, these must be regarded more in the light of curiosities 
than as garden ornaments. A compost of chalky loam with a little 
leaf-soil is suitable ; propagation is by division in late summer. 

Herniaria glabra. — This is the only member of the genus (Natural 
Order Illecebraceae) worthy of recognition ; it is native of Europe 
and Northern Asia, and forms a dense mass of small dark green 
leaves, and is much used for carpet bedding. Besides this, it may 
be planted in the rock garden. It is quite hardy, and can be increased 
to any extent by division, carried out in autumn or spring. 

Hesperis matronalis (Rocket). — The only kinds in general cul- 
tivation are Hesperis matronalis and its varieties. It is a native of 
various parts of Europe, belongs to the Wallflower family (Cruciferae), 
and is a general favourite, especially in old-fashioned gardens ; the 
flowers are fragrant, and their scent is especially pronounced in the 
evening. Though sometimes treated as an annual, it is really a 
herbaceous perennial, reaching a height of about 2 feet, and flower- 
ing from May to July. The typical kind has single purple flowers, 
while the varieties include a single and double white, single lilac, 
and double purple. The double kinds are liable to die out unless 
young plants are frequently raised from cuttings. The most suc- 
cessful growers propagate annually from cuttings when the j^oung 
shoots are pushing up in spring. As a rule these require thinning, 
so that the surplus growths can be inserted as cuttings on a sheltered 
border and covered with a handlight. In addition to the common 
name of Rocket, the subject of this note is also known as Dame's 
Violet, presumably because the blossoms are deliciously fragrant in 
the evening. The single-flowered Rockets are readily raised from 
seed. All thrive in ordinary garden soil. 

Heuchera (Alum Root). — A charming class of summer-flowering 
herbaceous plants that have come very much to the fore within recent 
years. They belong to the Natural Order Saxifragaceae, and are 
natives of North-West America. There are many species, but chief 
interest centres in Heuchera sanguinea, and the numerous garden 
forms obtained by crossmg it with one or two others, especially 









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F. /^ ^ 








y/ 


fti^' ' 


r/ 




^ jajjH 




THE ALGERIAN IRIS (IRIS 
STYLOSA) 



A HARDY BALSAM iIMPATIENS 
HYBRIDA) 





SHEEP'S BIT SCABIOUS (JASIONE 

JANKAE) 



A PRETTY ANNUAL (GILIA 
TRICOLOR) 



HIBISCUS 219 

micrantha. The Heucheras form neat tufts of heart-shaped lobed 
leaves ; the flower stems, which reach a height of 2 to 3 feet, bear 
a profusion of small blossoms, gracefully disposed on slender branch- 
ing spikes. Of the two species referred to Heuchera micrantha has 
small white flowers with pink stems, and in sanguinea the blooms are 
bright red. The best of the garden forms (usually classed as varieties 
of sanguinea) are : alba, white ; Edge Hall variety, bright rose ; Flam- 
beau, rich red ; Rosamunde, delicate pink ; Rose Queen, rich rose- 
pink ; splendens, bright crimson, and Walkerii, the richest coloured 
of all. Heucheras may be raised from seeds sown in spring in a frame. 
As this mode of increase cannot be depended upon in the case of 
the named varieties, these are propagated by division in spring. The 
plants thrive in well-drained sandy loam in bright sunshine. The 
long graceful sprays are especially valuable for use in a cut state. 

Hibiscus (Mallow). — Hibiscus belongs to the Mallow family 
(Malvaceae), and comprises a large number of species, the majority 
being shrubs, though several are herbaceous plants. Few are avail- 
able for the outdoor garden, the majority being natives of tropical 
countries. The best shrubby kind, so far as the outdoor garden is 
concerned, is syriacus, an Oriental species, forming a bush 5 to 10 feet 
or more high, and sometimes met with under the name of Althaea 
Frutex. Under cultivation it has developed a large number of varieties, 
some with white, others red or blue, some with single, and others 
with double flowers. A few good ones are : Hamabo, blush, with 
dark blotches ; Celeste, blue ; flore pleno, double ; paeoniflora, 
double ; ranunculaeflorus, double ; purpurea, purple. All bloom in 
August and September. They thrive in a sunny position in ordinary 
garden soil, are increased by cuttings in a cold frame in October, and 
require no regular pruning. 

The greenhouse kinds usually give the best results when planted 
in a border in a warm greenhouse, but they may also be grown in 
pots. They are remarkable in many cases for their large brilliantly 
coloured flowers. A few good kinds are : abelmoschus, large yellow 
flowers with dark blotches, native of the Tropics ; coccineus, a red- 
flowered kind from the Southern United States ; Manihot, a vigorous 
tropical plant, with very large yellow blooms ; rosa-sinensis, an ever- 
green shrub, with large red flowers. There are many varieties 
of the last-named, of which those with double flowers are highly 
appreciated. 

Hidalgoa Wercklel {Climbing Dahlia). — This near relative of 
the Dahlia family does not form a tuberous root as they do, and 
must be kept during the winter in the greenhouse. It belongs to 



220 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

the Daisy family (Compositae), and is native of the mountainous 
districts of Costa Rica, If planted out when it is safe to do so, 
the long, flexible shoots grow rapidly, and soon cover a consider- 
able space. It climbs by means of the long leaf stalks, which twist 
themselves around any support. The much-divided leaves are very 
pretty. Wlien studded over with its bright scarlet flowers like single 
Dahlias, this plant arrests attention by reason of its showy character 
and distinct appearance. A bright and warm summer is essential 
in order to have it at its best. It is propagated by cuttings of the 
young shoots in spring, and treated like Fuchsia. It will grow 
in ordinary potting compost, and when planted out in summer prefers 
a fairly light soil. 

Hieracium {Hawkweed). — Man}^ of the Hieraciums (Natural 
Order Compositae) are troublesome weeds in this country ; they 
have branching spikes of Dandehon-like flowers. Few are of value 
as garden flowers, the best being Hieracium aurantiacum, 12 to 18 
inches high, with bright orange-coloured flowers from July until 
autumn. The blooms of Hieracium rubrum are orange-scarlet, and 
in villosum, which is dwarfer than the other two and has whitish, 
downy leaves, they are bright yellow. Hieraciums are usually planted 
in the rock or wall garden, but care must be taken that they are not 
associated with delicate plants. They grow in ordinary soil in a sunny 
spot, and reproduce themselves readily from seeds, often self sown. 

Himalayan Poppy. — {See Meconopsis.) 

Hippeastrum. — The Hippeastrums, which belong to the Lfly 
family (Liliaceae), and are native chiefly of South America, are a 
gorgeous race of bulbous plants, consisting of several species and 
innumerable garden forms. With one exception, they require glass 
protection throughout the year. The exception is Hippeastrum 
pratense, a native of Chili, Though this name is the correct one, the 
plant is more generally met with in gardens as Habranthus pratensis. 
The flowers, which are freely borne two or three together on stems 
from 12 to 18 inches in height, are funnel-shaped, about 3 inches 
across, and brilliant scarlet with yellowish centre. They are at their 
best at the end of May and in June. The plant needs much the same 
treatment as the Belladonna Lily ; that is to say, it thrives in a 
narrow, sheltered border against a greenhouse facing south. The 
border should be thoroughly prepared by taking out the soil to the 
depth of 2 feet, on the bottom is placed about 6 inches of drainage 
material, while the compost is made up mainly of fibrous loam with 
a mixture of leaf-mould and sand. Planting should be done in 
autumn, and the bulbs put 6 inches below the surface. So treated. 



HIPPOCREPIS 221 

they will stand for many years without being disturbed, and flower 
annually. 

Hippocrepis (Horseshoe Vetch). — The only member of this genus 
(Natural Order Leguminosae) in general cultivation is Hippocrepis 
comosa, a low-growing, creeping plant with clusters of yellow Pea- 
shaped flowers. On a warm, sunny part of the rock garden it will 
bloom from spring until autumn, and is readily increased by division 
or by seeds in early spring. 

Hippophae rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn). — This shrub belongs 
to the Natural Order Elaeagnaceae, and is widely distributed through 
Europe and temperate Asia, more especially in the vicinity of the 
sea, where it stands considerable exposure. It is useful for plant- 
ing on waste land near the sea, and may be used as a screen or shelter 
for other shrubs. In addition, it is available for planting inland, 
where it is very effective in winter, when the leafless branches are 
covered with orange-coloured berries. To procure berries, how- 
ever, it is necessary to plant both male and female plants together 
in the proportion of one male to five or six females, and when plants 
are procured care should be taken to obtain both sexes. Plant in 
ordinary garden soil. No pruning is necessary. As a rule, it is found 
between 8 and 12 feet in height. Hippophae salicifolia, from the 
Himalaya, grows into a tree of moderate size. 

Holboellia latifolia is an evergreen climbing shrub from the 
Himalaya belonging to the Barberry family (Berberidaceae). It is 
suitable for the milder parts of the country, where its vigorous growth 
and dark green leathery leaves attract attention. The flowers are 
not very conspicuous, and the fruits are rarely matured in this country. 
Plant in ordinary garden soil, and prune fairly hard after flowering. 

Holcus {Soft Grass). — The only member of the genus (Natural 
Order Gramineae) worthy of consideration as a garden plant is Holcus 
lanatus albus variegatus, a pretty white-striped Grass, useful for 
the front of or as an edging to the herbaceous border. It is readily 
increased by division in spring. Holcus lanatus grows wild in Britain. 

Holly. — {See Ilex.) 

Hollyhock. ^(See Althaea rosea.) 

Honesty. — {See Lunaria.) 

Honeysuckle. — {See Lonicera.) 

Hoop Petticoat. — {See Narcissus Bulbocodium.) 

Hop. — {See HuMULUs Lupulus.) 

Hordeunn. — From an economic standpoint, by far the most 
important member of the genus (Natural Order Gramineae) is the 
Barley (Hordeum viilgare), while as an ornamental Grass, Hordeum 



222 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

jubatum, native of North America, is noteworthy. It is sometimes 
known as the Squirrel Tail Grass, and may be compared to a Barley 
with very long, conspicuous awns. It grows about i8 inches high, 
and thrives in ordinary garden soil. Seed should be sown out-of- 
doors in spring. 

Horehound.- {See Marrubium.) 
Hornbeam. -(5/?g Carpinus.) 
Horned Poppy. — (See Glaucium.) 
Horse Chestnut. — {See Aesculus.) 
Horse Tail.— (See Equisetum.) 
Horse Thistle. — {See Cnicus. ) 

Hottonia palustrls {Wafer Violet). — A very pretty aquatic, be- 
longing to the Primula family (Primulaceae), which thrives best in 
shallow water. It is native of Europe. The stems, which are wholly 
submerged, are clothed with finely divided fern-like leaves of bright 
green tint. The pale mauve flowers, which are produced during the 
summer, float on the surface of the water. As with many other 
aquatics, this can be established by tying the plant to a brick and 
sinking it in the water. It will soon root in the mud at the bottom 
and grow quickly. 

Hound's Tongue. — {See Cynoglossum.) 
House Leek. — {See Sempervivum.) 

Houstonia {Bluets). — A delightful race of very dwarf, free- 
flowering plants (Natural Order Rubiaceac), which bear blue or 
white flowers throughout the entire summer. They are seen at their 
very best in a sheltered chink in the rockery. The plants are but from 
3 to 4 inches in height when in bloom, the neat, rounded tuft of leaves 
lying close to the ground. A well-drained, light loamy soil and partial 
shade suit them best. The various kinds are : caerulea, blue ; caerulea 
alba, white ; purpurea, purplish ; purpurea alba, white ; and serpylli- 
folia, bright blue. They can be increased by division, which must 
be Ccuefully carried out in September or early spring, or by seeds, 
which ripen freely ; indeed, in the case of Houstonia caerulea, self- 
sown seedlings are very frequent. 

Humea. — The only species in cultivation is Humea elegans ; it 
belongs to the Daisy family (Compositae), and is native of Australia. 
It is of biennial duration, and used for the decoration of the flower 
garden in summer. It forms an erect stem furnished with large oblong, 
lanceolate, fragrant leaves, and bears a loose panicle of small, reddish 
flowers in summer ; the secondary branches of the panicle arc drooj)- 
ing, and a well-grown plant is most graceful. Seed is sown about 
midsummer in a pan of light silted soil, such as a mixture of loam, 




THE OLD SCARLET LYCHNIS CHALCEDONICA 



HUMULUS 223 

leaf-mould, and sand, and just covered with a little very fine soil. 
Germination quickly takes place if the pan of seeds is kept in a shady 
frame. As the seeds are small, watering through a fine rose must be 
carefully carried out. WHien large enough the young plants are pricked 
off into pans or boxes of soil similar to that described. They are kept 
in the frame, given plenty of air to ensure sturdy growth, and sub- 
sequently are potted singly in small pots, and will be ready for shifting 
into pots 5 inches wide in September. They must be wintered in a 
light, airy greenhouse just free from frost. Early in spring they 
should have a shift into larger pots, so that when planted out, about 
the end of May, they will develop good spikes of blossoms. The 
handling of the leaves sets up a severe irritation of the eyes of some 
persons, and this frequently leads to inflammation. 

Humulus (Hop). — Apart from its economic value, the common 
European Hop (Humulus Lupulus), which belongs to the Natural 
Order Urticaceae, is an ornamental, rapid-growing climber. It is of 
a herbaceous character, but if planted in good soil will soon cover a 
considerable space. For quickly clothing arches, trellises, arbours, 
or pergolas it is well suited. In late summer the plants are laden 
with clusters of the Hops of commerce. Increase is by division when 
dormant. The Japanese Hop (Humulus japonicus) is only of annual 
duration ; it is a vigorous climber of considerable ornamental merit, 
but is in this respect greatly surpassed by its variegated-leaved 
variety, of which the foliage is delightfully mottled with white. The 
Japanese Hop may be sown out-of-doors in spring, but the better 
plan is to raise it under glass and plant out in good soil late in May. 
If treated in this way the plants are effective much earlier in the 
season than if sown in the open ground. 

Hunnemannia fumariaefolia. — A showy Cahfornian perennial, 
member of the Poppy family (Papaveraceae), with much-divided 
glaucous leaves and yellow flowers, suggestive of those of Esch- 
scholtzia californica. It reaches a height of 2 to 3 feet, and requires 
a light, warm soil. Under these conditions it will flower throughout 
the summer. It is increased by division when dormant, or by seeds, 
which are best protected by a frame during their earlier stages. 

Huntsman's Cup. — {See Sarracenia purpurea.) 

Hutchinsia alpina. — {See NoccAEA alpina.) 

Hyacinth. — {See Hyacinthus). 

Hyacinthus {Hyacinth). — The Hyacinths of our gardens (Natural 
Order Liliaceae) have been obtained from the South European kind, 
orienlalis. The process of selection has occupied many, mau}^ years, 
and new vaiieties are still being raised. Most Hyacinth bulbs are 



224 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 



grown by the Dutch, for in Holland immense areas are devoted to 
their cultivation. The bulbs should be planted in October or early 
in November, and covered with 4 inches of soil. WTien their season 
is past and the beds are required for summer flowers, the Hyacinths 
are lifted, with as little injury to the leaves and roots as possible, 
and laid in an out-of-the-way border to ripen off gradually. When 
the leaves have died down the bulbs are dug up and laid out to dry, 
then cleaned and stored until planting time. The bulbs cannot be 

expected to flower so well the second 
year, and though they cannot be recom- 
mended for beds, yet there are many 
places in the garden, such as in groups 
in the foreground of shrubberies, where 
their bright-coloured blossoms will be 
much appreciated. For outdoor flower- 
ing, the very choice varieties need not 
be employed, a good selection of the 
cheaper kinds being as follows. Red and 
pink— BdJon Van Tuyll, Cardinal Wise- 
man, Fabiola, Garibaldi, General Pelis- 
sier, Gertrude, Gigantea, King of the 
Belgians, Moreno, Reine des Fleurs, and 
Robert Steiger. White — Baroness van 
Tuyll, La Grandesse, L' Innocence, Ma- 
dame van der Hoop, and Mr. Plimsoll. 
Blue — Baron van Tuyll, Charles Dickens, 
Grand Lilas, Grand Maitre, King of the 
Blues, Leonides, M. de Lesseps, Marie, 
and Royal Blue. 

Other species of Hyacinths are : 
amethystinus (Spanish Hyacinth), with 
bright blue flowers (and its white va- 
riety, albus), that grows from 6 to 12 inches high and is very 
attractive in May ; while azureus bears pretty blue flowers before 
winter has left us. 

Several bulbs that have at one time or another been included 
in the genus Hyacinthus are now placed in other groups, particu- 
larly Muscari and Scilla. That summer-flowering bulb, with stately 
spikes of white flowers, formerly known as Hyacinthus candicans, 
is now Galtonia candicans. 

Hydrangea. — Shrubby plants belonging to the Natural Order 
Saxifragaceae, consisting largely of North American, Chinese, Japanese, 




THE FLORIST'S HYACINTH 



HYDRANGEA 225 

and Himalayan species. Many have long been popular garden shrubs, 
whilst one or two sorts are used extensively for greenhouse and room 
decoration. Some kinds are hardy throughout the British Isles ; 
others can only be grown successfully in the milder counties. Those 
for outdoors require rich loamy soil, and as they are " rank feeders," 
a surface dressing of manure occasionally to the ground immediately 
surrounding the roots, is attended by good results. Hydrangea hor- 
tensis, from China and Japan, is used more often than any other 
kind for greenhouse decoration. Many varieties have developed, the 
most popular being those where practically all the flowers are sterile, 
the reproductive organs being displaced by large showy bracts. 
There are many varieties, however, which bear a mixture of sterile 
and fertile flowers, which are equally beautiful ; Mariesii, for instance, 
with large reddish sterile flowers and blue fertile ones, and Veitchii, 
a similar plant, with white sterile blooms, are very showy. By 
careful cultivation, the heads of these sterile flowers attain large 
proportions. Cuttings of the points of shoots are rooted in summer, 
and the young plants kept in small pots until January. They are 
then placed in a compost of 3 parts good loam to i part leaf-mould 
and I part well-decayed manure with a little sand, in 5- or 6-inch 
pots, and grown on in a greenhouse to produce a single head of flowers 
each. If such plants are kept for another year they may produce 
4 or 6 heads each, and in later years a plant may carry two hundred 
heads of flowers. 

Many large plants are found out-of-doors in the milder parts 
of the country. A peculiarity of the plant is that although the flowers 
may be normally pink, the addition of iron to the soil causes them 
to turn blue. Upon no account prune the shoots of Hydrangea 
hortensis before they have flowered. As a rule, pruning should take 
the form of thinning. 

The next most popular kind is paniculata, a native of Japan ; 
it is an upright bush, 5 or 6 feet high, which bears terminal panicles 
of fertile and sterile flowers in August and September. The variety 
grandiflora differs by reason of all the flowers being sterile. It often 
forms exceptionally large inflorescences, those on plants growing 
in rich soil being often between 12 and 18 inches long. It is much 
used for forcing. The young branches may be cut back to within 
two or three buds of the old wood in February each year. The 
young shoots must also be well thinned if the finest flower-heads are 
desired. 

Hydrangea arborescens var. grandiflora is another kind which 
bears handsome, rounded heads of white sterile flowers in July ; it 



226 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

must have rich soil and be pruned hard back about February. Petio- 
laris is a useful Japanese plant of climbing habit ; it climbs naturally 
by means of aerial roots, attaching itself to its support in a similar 
manner to the Ivy, and may be used for walls or for covering tree 
trunks or the overturned butts of trees ; stellata and Lindleyi are 
well-marked varieties of hortensis. Although there are many other 
species, those referred to are the best for general use. 

Hydrocharis {Frog Bit). — A British plant (Natural Order Hydro- 
charidaceae) which, rooting in the mud at the bottom of shallow 
water, will quite cover the surface with curious brown circular leaves. 
The flowers are not of any particular account. 

Hydrophyllum {Water Leaf). — Hardy perennials (Natural Order 
Hydrophyllaceae), natives of North America. They reach a height 
of 12 to i8 inches, and prefer a moist soil. The species are : appen- 
diculatum, with blue flowers ; Canadense, white ; and virginicum, 
blue. The popular name is derived from the fact that the pinnate 
leaves become filled with water during spring. All can be increased 
by division in early spring. The blossoms are borne more or less 
throughout the summer. 

Hymenanthera crassifolia is a dense, low-growing bush from 
New Zealand, belonging to the Natural Order Violaceae. Attaining a 
height of 1 1 or 2 feet, it forms a mass of rather rigid shoots clothed 
with small evergreen leaves. The flowers are not very showy, and 
the white fruits are not produced in sufficient numbers to make them 
effective. Plant in ordinary garden soil, increase by seeds or cuttings, 
and give no regular pruning. 

Hypericum {St. John's Wort). — Hardy, shrubby, and herbaceous 
plants are found in this group (Natural Order H}^ericaceae). They 
are widely distributed through Europe, temperate Asia, and North 
America, and some occur as weeds in the British Isles. The majority 
have golden blossoms, but in a few cases the flowers are pale yellow. 
Most of the shrubby kinds are valuable plants, for they blossom freely 
from July to October, a time when flowering shrubs are not common. 
They thrive in good loamy soil, and should usually be given an open 
position, although one kind, calycinum, gives good results in semi- 
shade. The dwarf, shrubby kinds and the best of the herbaceous 
sorts are worth a place on the rockery, whilst the more vigorous of 
the perennials should find a place in the herbaceous border. The 
shrubby kinds are usually increased by cuttings in summer, but 
some are propagated from seeds or by division. Other kinds 
may be divided in spring. All the shrubby sorts are benefited b}' 
being pruned rather vigorously in February. Remove old, worn-out 



HYSSOPUS OFFICINALIS 227 

branches and very weak shoots, and shorten the remainder half way. 
Hypericum calycinum is often grown as a carpet plant beneath trees, 
and when this is the case it should be cut to the ground each spring. 

The chief kinds are : Androsaemum, sometimes called the Tutsan, 
a European plant i foot to 2 feet high, its yellow flowers are followed 
by black fruits ; aureum, from the Southern United States, is a showy 
plant ; Buckleyi, a dwarf plant, 6 inches high, is from Georgia and 
Carolina, it is a neat, free-flowering specimen, suitable for the rock 
garden. Coris, a dwarf herbaceous kind, bears very large flowers, 
and is grown in the rock garden ; calycinum, the Rose of Sharon, 
has already been mentioned, its flowers are 3 inches across ; densi- 
florum, kalmianum, and prolificum are three dense-growing kinds 
from North America, they grow about 2 feet high, and produce their 
small flowers in large heads. 

Hypericum elatum is a shrub 3 to 4 feet high, of bushy habit. 
Hookerianum should be selected when a few kinds only are wanted ; 
it grows 2 1 feet high, and blooms profusely, native of the Himalaya. 
Moserianum is the best of the dwarf kinds for planting in specimen 
beds on lawns ; growing i foot high, it forms compact plants bearing 
a profusion of golden blossoms, it is of hybrid origin. Olympicum, 
from Asia Minor, is conspicuous by reason of its small glaucous leaves 
and profusion of flowers ; its proper place is the rock garden. Patulum 
var. Henryi is a graceful Chinese kind, 2 feet or so high ; it grows 
freely and blooms profusely. Humifusum, orientale, and perfoliatum 
may be grown in the herbaceous border. The rock garden kinds 
need sandy loam and a sunny position. 

Hyssopus officinalis (Hyssop). — A wefl-known aromatic herb 
(Natural Order Labiatae), that forms a bushy plant about 18 inches 
high, and when the bluish-purple blossoms are open in summer it 
is fairly ornamental. It thrives in ordinary garden soil, and can be 
propagated either by seeds or cuttings ; the latter should be dibbled 
in a shady border at the end of August, while seed is sown in spring. 
Iber'is (Candyiuft). — The Candytufts, which belong to the Wallflower 
family (Cruciferae), and are natives chiefly of Southern Europe and 
Asia Minor, may be divided into two sections, annuals and perennials. 
The latter are sometimes referred to as herbaceous plants, but they 
are really shrubs or sub-shrubs, for the stems are permanent, and 
the foliage is more or less evergreen. As the tallest of them rarely 
exceed 12 inches in height, they are well suited for the rock garden, 
particularly Iberis sempervirens, which will drape the front of a 
large boulder, forming a cascade of white blossom. They flower 
during April and May and more or less during summer, and are 



228 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

increased by cuttings and division in late summer. Seeds also ripen 
from which, if sown in spring, young plants are easily raised. Peren- 
nial Candytufts like a sunny spot and will grow in ordinary well- 
drained soil. In the front row of the herbaceous border they are 
seen to advantage, while on dry walls and in the rock garden they 
are especially charming. A selection of the best includes : correae- 
folia, Garrexiana, gibraltarica. Little Gem, saxatilis, sempervirens, 
sempervirens fiore pleno, and Tenoreana. The last-named has pale rosy- 
lilac flowers, those of the others are white. The dwarfest of all is 
saxatilis, while Little Gem is a dwarf, compact plant 6 inches high. 

The annual Candytufts have been greatly improved within recent 
years, and different strains, quite distinct from each other, are now 
to be obtained. The large spikes of the Hyacinth- flowered varieties 
make a particularly bold show, the range in colour extending through 
white, rose, carmine, and crimson. Seeds are sown out-of-doors in 
March and April, and the seedlings must be thinned out well, for 
a good plant, when at its best, is about 12 inches through. Annual 
Candytufts flourish in ordinary garden soil, and prefer a sunny spot. 
They are thoroughly hardy, and seed may be sown in autumn to pro- 
duce flowering plants in spring. The seedlings do not transplant 
readily, hence seed should be sown where the plants are to bloom. 

Ice Plant.— (S^g Mesembryanthemum.) 

Idesia polycarpa is a rare ornamental tree from China and 
Japan, belonging to the Natural Order Bixaceae. Its chief attractions 
are the large and handsome heart-shaped leaves, which are borne on 
long reddish stalks. The flowers are rather small and yellowish in 
colour ; they are succeeded, however, by showy, round black fruits 
in bunches 4 to 6 inches long, resembling bunches of small grapes. 
It should be given a sunny position on a lawn where the soil is well 
drained, deep, and loamy. Propagation is by seeds, and any necessary 
pruning should be directed towards shaping the tree and keeping 
the leading shoot clear of rivals. 

Ilex {Holly). — This is an important class of hardy trees and shrubs 
(Natural Order Aquifoliaceae), for it includes the Common Holly, 
one of our few large-growing native evergreens, and an invaluable 
plant for the garden. The various species are widely distributed 
through Europe, North India, China, Japan, and North America, 
whilst many tender kinds occur in South America and elsewhere. 
The hardy kinds, however, alone concern us. There are two distinct 
groups, one of which bears evergreen and the other deciduous leaves ; 
the former group is the more valuable for the garden. The Hollies 
possess several economic properties, for in addition to the timber 



ILEX 229 

being hard and useful for turning, carving, etc., the bark of some 
kinds is of medicinal value, whilst bird-lime is prepared from other 
sorts. The leaves of some sorts are also used for tea. Those of the 
South American Ilex paraguensis are of special value for the purpose. 

The Common Holly, Ilex Aquifolium, can be grown throughout 
the British Isles except in water-logged ground, and it often occurs 
wild in Pine and Oak woods, for instance, in the New Forest and in 
the Forest of Dean. It is, however, planted largely in the garden 
both as a decorative tree and as a hedge. For an evergreen hedge 
it is perhaps the best all-round shrub that can be procured. There 
are many varieties, some distinct by reason of the shape or spiny 
character of the leaves and others by the leaf-colouring, for there 
are many forms with gold- and silver-variegated foliage. Hollies 
must not be disturbed except at the right season, especially if the 
soil is to be shaken from the roots, and it is often fatal to move them 
during winter. Late April and May, and August and September, 
are the best months for transplanting. People frequently err by 
over-pruning Hollies. They clip them as they would a hedge, whereas 
pruning should take the form of thinning the shoots, removing one 
here and there which is throwing the tree out of shape. This may 
be done in summer. Holly hedges should be clipped in August. 

A few useful varieties of the Common Holly are : Green-leaved— 
angustifolia, a small-leaved kind ; camelliaefolia, a handsome upright- 
growing tree with large dark green leaves ; Donningtonensis, with 
narrow leaves ; integrifolia and scotica, with almost spineless foliage ; 
and ovata, with distinct leaves of very even size. Golden-leaved — 
Golden Queen, Golden King, aurea marginata, and aurea medio-picta. 
Silver leaved — Silver Queen, Handsworth Silver, argentea marginata. 
The yellow-fruited kind (fructu-luteo) and the weeping Holly (pendula) 
ought also to be grown. 

There is another set of Hollies with large broad leaves, which 
are usually included under Ilex AquifoHum, though many of them 
are hybrids between Ilex platyphylla or Ilex balearica. Good ones 
are : altaclarensis, Shepherdii (sometimes called Hodginsii), nigrescens, 
and nobilis. 

Other useful species are : cornuta, a dense evergreen bush from 
China ; crenata, a dwarf, compact evergreen from Japan with tiny 
evergreen leaves ; latifolia, a large-leaved Japanese plant ; opaca, 
the American Holly, with fruits as showy as those of our common 
kind ; Pernyi, a handsome new evergreen species from China, with 
small leaves ; and Veitchii, another new Chinese kind, related to 
the last-named. 



230 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

As the Common Holly is so often grown for its fruits, it must be 
understood that male and female flowers appear on different trees, 
therefore the planting of both kinds is essential. 

Illtcium. — This group, which belongs to the Magnoha family 
(Magnoliaceae), is composed of a few evergreen shrubs from China, 
Japan, and North America, which may be grown out-of-doors in the 
milder parts of the country, but require greenhouse protection else- 
where. They thrive in loamy soil containing a little peat ; are usually 
raised from seeds, and require no other pruning save what is necessary 
to shape the bushes. lUicium floridanum, from the Southern United 
States, has reddish star-shaped flowers, and religiosum, from China 
and Japan, has cream-coloured blooms. Flowering takes place during 
late spring and early summer. 

Impatiens {Balsam). — Though this is an extensive class, belong- 
ing to the Geranium family (Geraniaceae), few are of value for the 
outdoor garden. The Common Balsam (Impatiens Balsamina) is a 
popular annual for growing under glass, and occasionally is bedded 
out during summer. For the latter purpose seed is sown late in 
March in warmth ; it germinates quickly, and the young plants make 
rapid progress if potted in light, rich soil. By the second week in 
June, at which time they should be established in 5-inch pots, they 
may be planted out. If the season is favourable they will give a 
good display, but not for very long. Two shrubby kinds, Impatiens 
Holstii, with vermilion flowers, and Oliverii, pale mauve, are grown 
from cuttings in spring like a Fuchsia, and planted out-of-doors early 
in June. Only in a warm season are they satisfactory in the open. 
The two following annuals reproduce themselves readily from seeds, 
namely, amphorata, purple, and Roylei (also known as glandulifera), 
rosy-purple. Both reach a height of 6 feet or more, and are very 
striking, but suitable only for the wild garden or woodland. 

Incarvillea (Trumpet Flower). — Showy herbaceous perennials 
(Natural Order Bignoniaceae), natives of China and Turkestan. They 
form stout, fleshy roots, and in spring produce a tuft of spreading 
pinnate leaves ; the flower spike may be from 18 inches to 3 feet 
high, and bears trumpet-shaped blooms. Incarvillea Delavayi is the 
most popular kind, and has rose-red blooms. Somewhat similar is 
grandiflora, with flowers of deeper shade ; Olgae and variabilis have 
bright rose-coloured blooms ; variabilis differs from the others in 
its finely cut fern-like foliage. All the Incarvilleas flower during 
June and July. The stout, fleshy roots are remarkably brittle, so 
that great care must be taken in handling them. Seeds are some- 
times produced from which young plants can be raised ; it is sown 




THE BRILLIANT PRIMULA "UNIQUE" 



INDIGOFERA GERARDIANA 231 

in sandy soil in spring, and placed in a frame. In the case of estab- 
lished clumps, division may also be carried out in autumn, though 
they are best left undisturbed as long as possible. In cold gardens 
these plants should be protected by a heap of ashes over the crowns; 

Indian Corn. — {See Zea.) 

Indian Cress. — {See Tropaeolum majus.) 

Indian Pink. — {See Dianthus Chinensis.) 

Indian Shot. — {See Canna.) 

Indigofera Gerardiana is the only shrub in this group with 
which we need concern ourselves, although Indigofera tinctoria, of 
the Tropics, is a much more important plant, for it is the source of 
indigo of commerce. Indigofera belongs to the Pea family (Legu- 
minosae), and the species Gerardiana is a native of the Himalaya. 
When planted against a wall it grows 12 or 15 feet high, the main 
branches surviving and producing long shoots each year which 
bear elegant pinnate leaves and dense racemes of rosy-red flowers 
during July and August. In the open it is usually cut to the ground 
line each year, but new shoots appear from the rootstock, and grow 
between 2 and 3 feet long during summer. Flowers are borne quite 
freely. Pruning of plants in beds should take the form of cutting 
all shoots to the ground in February. In pruning plants on a wall, 
cut back the previous year's shoots to within a bud or two of the 
base. Plant in deep loamy soil, and increase from cuttings. 

Inula. — Vigorous herbaceous plants, belonging to the Daisy 
family (Compositae), and natives of the Northern Hemisphere. In 
late summer and early autumn they bear yellow single flowers. Inulas 
thrive in ordinary garden soil, and may be increased by division, 
root cuttings, or seeds. Division is carried out and root cuttings 
are taken in autumn ; the latter are made by cutting the roots into 
pieces about 4 inches long, which are dibbled into sandy soil or a 
sheltered border ; they will soon form plants. Seeds may be sown 
out-of-doors in spring. The best are : ensifolia, a neat, compact 
rock plant, about 9 inches high ; glandulosa, 2 feet ; glandulosa 
fimbriata, with fringed petals ; grandiflora, 2 feet ; Helenium, having 
large oblong leaves, 6 feet ; Hookerii, 2 feet ; montana, a little plant, 
suitable for the rock garden ; Oculus-Christii, 2 feet ; and Royleana, 
2 feet. 

lonopsidium acaule (Violet Cress). — A dainty Httle annual, 
member of the Wallflower family (Cruciferae), which grows only about 
2 inches high, and bears pretty little lilac-blue flowers throughout 
spring and summer. It is seen at its best in a half-shaded place in 
the rock garden. Seed may be sown in spring, where the plants are 



232 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

to flower. Once established, it will reproduce itself by means of 
self-sown seeds, which come up freely. The Violet Cress is a native 
of Portugal and the North of Africa. 

Ipomoea {Morning Glory). — An extensive group of chiefly climb- 
ing plants (Natural Order Convolvulaceae) which are more numerous 
in the tropical than in temperate countries. That brilliantly coloured 
climbing annual, known as Convolvulus major, is classed by botanists 
as Ipomoea purpurea. The chief annual kinds of Ipomoea that may 
be grown out-of-doors in a sheltered spot are : rubro-caerulea, a 
Convolvulus-like plant, with large sky-blue flowers, soon becoming 
suffused with red ; and versicolor, bearing spikes of red flowers which 
subsequently change to yellow ; this is a useful, quick-growing annual. 
A Mexican tuberous kind, Purga, will survive the winter if the roots 
are protected from frost and planted at the foot of a south wall ; 
the slender shoots entwine themselves around any support, and 
soon cover a considerable space. The purplish-rose flowers appear 
towards the end of summer, and continue into autumn. In the 
south-west of England it is quite hardy. 

Iresine. — The Iresines, which belong to the Natural Order Amar- 
antaceae, and are native of South America, are well-known bedding 
plants, their chief attraction being their coloured leaves as the flowers 
are not at all showy. They are easily grown, and if a few plants 
are wintered in the warm greenhouse they will produce numerous 
shoots in spring, and thus form roots quickly. If potted and kept 
in a greenhouse or frame they will form good plants by bedding-out 
time ; they thrive in ordinary potting compost of loam, with a 
little leaf-mould and sand. Those generally used for bedding are 
Herbstii, with deep purplish-crimson leaves ; Herbstii aureo-reticulata, 
leaves veined with gold ; and Lindenii, deep red leaves. 

Iris. — The different members of the genus Iris (Natural Order 
Iridaceae) occur over the northern and temperate regions of both 
hemispheres. The most accommodating race of all is that com- 
monly called Flag or German Iris, which has been obtained from 
several distinct species, such as amoena, neglecta, pallida, squalens, 
and variegata. The Flag Irises will thrive in adverse conditions, in 
shade, in town gardens, on a wall, or a hot bank, though they appre- 
ciate good border soil. In planting, the rhizomes should only be just 
covered ; they should be disturbed as little as possible, for they take 
a year or two to recover fully. The flower consists of the standards 
or erect petals, and the falls or drooping petals. In some varieties 
the colours of the two are quite distinct. The standards and falls are 
here indicated by the initial letter of each; 



IRIS 233 

A good selection of German Irises is as follows : albicans, white ; 
atroviolacea, claret ; aurea, golden-yellow ; Black Prince, (s) purplish- 
lilac, (f) almost black ; Blue Boy, (s) light blue, (f) purple ; Brides- 
maid, (s) pale lavender, (f) white, veined with lavender ; Cordelia, 
(s) deep lavender, (f) rich purple ; Duchesse de Nemours, blue, veined 
white ; flavescens, light primrose-yellow ; florentina, white, tinged 
with lavender, this is the species from which Orris Root is prepared ; 
Germania, (s) purplish-blue, (f) purple ; Gracchus, (s) lemon, (f) 
pale yellow, veined purple ; Hector, (s) yellow, (f) velvety-crimson ; 
Madame Chereau, white, edged and feathered violet, and pale blue ; 
Maori King, (s) rich yellow, (f) velvety-crimson; Mrs. Neubronner, 
yellow; Mrs. Reuthe, pale lavender; Poiteau, (s) white, tinged 
lavender, (f) purple, veined white ; and Standard Bearer, (s) rich 
rosy-purple, (f) purple, veined and shaded white. The list of varieties 
of this class is a very long one, and some nurserymen are continually 
raising new varieties. Where the standards and falls are not indicated 
the flowers are self-coloured. The month of March is a good time to 
plant the Flag Irises, as the new roots at once take possession of the 
soil. 

Dwarf Flag Iris. — Under the name of Iris pumila there is a charm- 
ing race of dwarf Irises that flower in early spring ; they grow only 
some 6 inches high, bloom profusely, and are suitable for the rock 
garden or as an edging to a bed of the larger kinds ; for this latter 
purpose if put in a double row about 4 inches apart they will soon 
become established. The best are : alba, white ; atroviolacea, deep 
purple ; coerulea, light sky blue ; cyanea, dark blue ; excelsa, 
yellow ; gracilis, pale greyish-blue ; and lutea, deep yellow. All 
of these have rhizomes like the German Iris, but they do not spread 
to the same extent. 

Spanish Iris. — This term is applied to the various forms of Iris 
Xiphium, and they form an exceedingly valuable race of hardy bulbs. 
The flowers, produced on stout, erect stems, 2 feet or so high, are of 
various shades of white, yellow, blue, bronze, and other tints. They 
are valuable for cutting, and last a long time in water if gathered 
just as the flowers are opening. The bulbs should be planted diuring 
October, preferably in sandy, well-drained loam, 4 or 5 inches deep, 
and the same distance apart. They may be left undisturbed for three 
or four years, when they ought to be hfted and replanted. Some 
good varieties are : Alexander Von Humboldt, rich blue ; British 
Queen, white ; Bronze King, bronze ; Cajanus, golden-yellow ; 
Excelsior, light blue, late ; Jaune, brilliant orange-yellow ; King 
of the Blues, deep blue ; La Reconnaissance, bronze and gold ; La 



234 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Tendresse, white and yellow ; L'Unique, dark blue and white ; Ne 
Plus Ultra, light blue ; Ouida, lavender-blue ; Sappho, bronzy-yellow ; 
Souvenir, pale blue, shaded French grey ; and Thunderbolt, bronze- 
yellow, purple, and brown, a striking mixture. All flower in June 
and early July. 

English Iris. — These, which are varieties of Iris xiphioides, 
belong to the same section as the Spanish kinds, from which they 
differ in the bulbs, flowers, and tufts of foliage being considerably 
larger ; they should be planted about 8 inches apart. English Irises 
are about a fortnight later in expanding than the Spanish, and are 
equally desirable for cutting. Some of the best are : Bleu Mourant, 
deep blue ; Cassandra, lavender-blue ; Duke of Portland, white, 
striped purple ; Grand Lilas, lilac-blue ; Lord Derby, lavender, 
spotted dark blue ; Madame de Beauharnais, dark blue with deeper 
blotches ; Mont Blanc, white ; Nimrod, very deep purple ; Perdita, 
lavender splashed with rose. Plant in October. 

Miniature Bulbous Irises. — There is a group of small Irises that 
bloom in January, February, and March. The flowers of most of 
them are most exquisitely marked, but are soon spoilt by bad weather, 
and for this reason are frequently protected by handlights ; they 
need a warm, well-drained border of sandy loam under a south wall 
and are planted in September. The best are : Danfordiae, yellow ; 
Heldreichii, light sky blue with deep blue falls ; Histrio, porcelain 
blue ; histrioides, bright blue ; orchioides, deep yellow ; persica, 
silvery-blue and violet ; reticulata, dark blue, blotched with gold, 
sweet-scented ; Tauri, violet-purple, deeper coloured falls marked 
with gold ; and Vartanii, light blue. 

The Japanese Iris.- — While several species of Iris are natives of 
Japan, the kind to which this name is generally applied is Iris laevi- 
gata, more often known as Iris Kaempferii. It is remarkable for the 
large size and varied colouring of its blossoms, which open in July, 
Large quantities in many varieties are annually imported from Japan 
during winter. They have apparently been grown in stiff clayey 
soil, which serves to protect the rhizomes, so that, if kept away from 
the boilers during the journey, they reach here in good condition. 
Imported sorts should be planted in March or April. In this country 
they need deep loamy soil with leaf-mould and cow manure mixed 
in ; they are moisture-loving plants and flourish by the side of water, 
though they need a sunny spot ; the crown — that is, the top of the 
rootstock — ought to be 6 inches above the water. Proximity to 
water is, however, not absolutely essential ; they will thrive in 
moist loam provided it is well tilled and manured. Many of the 




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IRIS 235 

varieties have six large horizontally disposed petals, forming a huge 
flower, in some cases nearly 12 inches across. Most of them have 
been raised in Japan, and the names are for the greater part transla- 
tions from the Japanese. A good selection is as follows : Band of 
Cloud, lavender, veined with white ; Blushing Empress, white, 
edged rose ; Cloisonne, purple ; Close of Day, royal blue ; Crane, 
white, veined sky blue ; Deep Blue Waters, yellow, surrounded by 
bright blue, shading to violet-purple ; Eastern Queen, reddish-purple ; 
Jewels and Flowers, mauve ground, veined deep purple ; Mikado, 
white, veined lilac ; Morning Mists, white, shaded lavender-blue ; 
Nankin, light blue ; Peace, rich royal purple ; Purple Emperor, a 
grand purple flower ; Rosy Dawn, claret-red ; Silver Stars, clear 
white with yellow blotches ; Still Waters, light purple with white 
veins ; Wliite Waterfall, silvery- white ; and Wedding Garment, deep 
blue, veined white. 

Other kinds of Iris. — 

Irises deserving of special mention are : albopurpurea, white, 
spotted blue, 3 feet ; aurea, golden-yellow, 4 feet ; Cengialtii, bright 
blue, 12 inches ; foetidissima (the Gladwyn), greenish, the capsules, 
which open in autumn and show the bright red seeds, are very pretty ; 
foetidissima aurea, a counterpart of the preceding, but with varie- 
gated leaves ; graminea, blue and white, 2 feet ; iberica, pearly white, 
veined black, falls rich brown with purple blotch, 12 inches, when 
dormant needs to be kept dry for a time ; Monnierii, yellow, 5 to 6 
feet, needs moisture ; orientalis, white and yellow, 5 feet ; Pseuda- 
corus, a common British species with yellow flowers, good for water- 
side ; Pseudacorus variegata, striped with creamy-white ; stylosa, 
also known as unguicularis, lavender-blue, winter, needs to be planted 
at the foot of a south wall ; sibirica, of slender growth, 4 to 5 feet 
high, flowers blue, good for water-side. 

Iris Susiana is a quaint flower of great size and greyish colour, 
covered with dark brown markings ; must be treated like iberica , 
tectorum is a Japanese species, with pale blue flowers, grown in Japan 
on roofs in the same way as the Houseleek in this country ; and 
tuberosa (Snake's Head Iris), 6 inches, has green and purplish-black 
flowers in spring. The above kinds, unless otherwise indicated, 
flower in late spring and early summer. 

Cushion Irises. — These Irises, of which Susiana and iberica are 
examples, are remarkably handsome, but rather special conditions 
are necessary for their successful cultivation. They are somewhat 
tender and therefore need a sunny, sheltered position, a bed of well- 
drained soil, preferably raised a few inches above the ground surface. 



236 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

and should be protected by means of a frame when the leaves fade. 
Light gritty soil is required, and it is essential that the plants are 
thoroughly ripened, a condition that can only ensue if they are 
planted in a sunny spot and covered with glass during the dormant 
season. November is the month advised for planting. These Irises 
dislike being disturbed. There are now many cross-bred forms of 
the Cushion Irises. 

Isatis (Woad). — The British species belonging to this group (Isatis 
tinctoria) is an interesting plant (Natural Order Cruciferae) owing 
to the fact that its juice was used by the ancient Britons with which 
to dye themselves. From an ornamental standpoint the best is 
Isatis glauca, from Asia Minor, This forms a freely branched herba- 
ceous perennial with pretty glaucous leaves, and clouds of small yellow 
blossoms in July and August. It will thrive in the ordinary soil of 
a herbaceous border, and can be readily increased from seeds sown 
outside in the spring. 

Isopyrum thalictroides. — An exceedingly pretty and distinct 
little plant, native of Southern Europe and belonging to the Butter- 
cup family (Ranunculaceae) ; it grows 9 inches high, and is well 
suited by loamy soil in a shady part of the rock garden. The leaves, 
which are disposed in a spreading tuft, are deeply cut in a manner 
suggestive of the fronds of a Maiden Hair Fern, while the tiny white 
flowers rise above them in slender, much-branched panicles in spring. 
Isopyrum can be increased by division or by seed sown in spring. 

Italian Starwort. — {See Aster Amellus.) 

Itea virginica, from the Eastern United States, and Itea ilici- 
folia, from China, are the only kinds in cultivation in this country. 
They belong to the Natural Order Saxifragaceae. Itea virginica is a 
deciduous shrub, 2 to 3 feet high, with short racemes of fragrant white 
flowers in July ; it may be grown in the open in loamy soil, and should 
be pruned moderately hard in February. Itea ilicifolia is a new 
evergreen bush suitable for the warmer counties or for planting against 
walls ; its racemes of white flowers are sometimes 9 to 12 inches long. 
Very little pruning is necessary. Plant in ordinarily good garden 
soil, and increase from cuttings in summer. 

Ivy. — {See Hedera.) 

Ivy-leaved Toadflax.— (5^^ Linaria Cymbalaria.) 

Ixla. — Pretty bulbous plants, belonging to the Iris family (Iridaceae) 
and natives of South Africa, that bear slender spikes of showy flowers 
on stems about 18 inches high. They are generally treated as green- 
house plants, but may, like many other bulbs from the same region, 
be successfully grown in well-drained sandy loam, in a narrow sunny 



IXIOLIRION 237 

border, in front of a hothouse or in some similar position. The bulbs 
are small, and soon suffer if they are kept out of the ground too long, 
so should be planted in September, or early in October, and covered 
with 3 inches of soil. With the approach of winter the ground above 
them must be covered with leaves or some other protecting material. 
There is quite a long list of varieties, varying in colour from white 
to crimson and purple. Three of the very best are : crateroides, rich 
cerise-scarlet ; Smiling Mary, deep self pink ; and viridiflora, an 
exceedingly strange kind, green with black centre, very striking. 

Ixiolirion. — The only species in general cultivation is Ixiolirion 
tataricum, known sometimes as Pallasii. It belongs to the Natural 
Order Amaryllidaceae, and is native of Persia. It is a small bulb, 
which should be planted in a sheltered spot in autumn, and in the 
spring will produce a slender flower spike, which bears an umbel of 
blue or purplish-blue flowers in May or June. Once established, it 
will increase by self-sown seeds. 

Jacobaea. — {See Senecio Jacobaea.) 

Jacobea Lily.— (See Sprekelia formosissima.) 

Jacob's Ladder. — {See Polemonium caeruleum.) 

Jalap. — (See Ipomoea Purga.) 

Jamesia americana is a shrubby plant belonging to the Natural 
Order Saxifragaceae. It is a native of the Rocky Mountains, and 
forms a dense shrub 3 to 4 feet high with greyish-green, oval, deciduous 
leaves, and bears pretty white flowers, each about | inch across in 
May. As it grows freely in any good garden soil and is perfectly 
hardy it is available for all parts of the country, and may be planted 
as a specimen bush or as a group in the shrubbery. Propagation may 
be carried on by means of seeds, and pruning is confined to thinning 
out a number of the older branches after the flowers have fallen. 

Jasione {Sheep's Bit Scabious). — Pretty little herbaceous peren- 
nials, natives of Europe, and belonging to the Bellfiower family (Cam- 
panulaceae). They grow from 6 to 12 inches high, flower throughout 
summer and often into autumn. The species are Jankae with beau- 
tiful blue flowers freely produced from a rosette of leaves : montana, 
pale blue ; and perennis, having compact rosettes of foliage and light 
blue flowers. All of them thrive in well-drained soil in a sunny part 
of the rock garden, or may be planted in the chinks of a wall. 

Jasminum (Jasmine) is an important group of the Natural Order 
Oleaceae, embracing chiefly climbing plants which may be grown 
out-of-doors or in greenhouses, according to the countries of which 
they are native. The outdoor kinds thrive in loamy soil to which 
a little leaf-mould has been added and a compost of 2 parts fibrous 



238 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

loam, I part leaf-mould or peat, and ^ part sand, is suitable for the 
tender sorts. Propagation in each instance may be effected by means 
of cuttings during spring or summer, and pruning takes the form of 
cutting the secondary branches back to within a bud or two of the 
main branches. As some bloom on old and others on young shoots, 
attention must be given to each plant separately. As a rule it is 
wise to prune as soon as the flowers fade, except in the case of those 
sorts which bloom during late summer, when pruning may be deferred 
until winter. The greenhouse Jasmines may be grown in pots or in 
borders and trained to pillars or rafters ; border cultivation is, as a 
rule, the more satisfactory. 

The best of the outdoor kinds are : Beesiana, a new Chinese species 
with pinkish flowers ; fruticans, a dwarf, bushy kind from China, 
with small, yellow flowers in summer, it requires little pruning ; 
revolutum is a variable yellow-flowered kind from the Himalaya, 
it flowers in summer, and the variety known as Reevesii is more 
vigorous than the type. Nudiflorum, a Chinese and Japanese chmber, 
is one of the most useful shrubs of the garden, it flowers profusely 
in mid-winter in most parts of the country : prune as soon as the 
flowers fall. Offlcinale is a white-flowered, fragrant species from Persia 
and North- West India, it is widely grown for its flowers in summer, 
and in France it is cultivated for perfumery purposes, it should be 
pruned during winter ; primulinum, from China, has large yellow 
flowers in winter, it is new to this country and suitable for warm walls. 

Jerusalem Sage. — {See Phlomis.) 

Job's Tears. — {See Coix Lachryma.) 

Juglans {Walnut). — Important timber trees are included in this 
genus (Natural Order Juglandaceae). They are found in the Caucasus, 
Himalaya, China, Japan, Manchuria, and North America, and the 
majority of those introduced are hardy in England and Ireland, 
whilst some may be grown as far north as Aberdeen in Scotland. 
They require deep loamy soil such as will grow good wheat or oak 
trees. As a rule, they are grown solely for ornamental purposes, 
or in one case for fruit, in the British Isles, but the timber of felled 
trees usually commands a good price. Propagation of the species is 
by seeds, and of the varieties by grafting upon their respective types. 
The best results are obtained when seeds are sown in the positions 
the trees are intended to occupy, but if they must be sown elsewhere, 
care should be taken to transplant them every second year in order 
that a well-developed system of fibrous roots may be procured in view 
of the final planting. Pruning takes the form of shaping the trees, 
removing the lower branches, and keeping the leading shoots clear. 



JUNCUS 239 

The chief species are : cinerea, the Butternut of North America, 
a handsome tree with long, pinnate leaves, the edible nuts are 2 or 
2 1 inches long, with deeply ridged shells, and the kernels are sweet 
and similar in taste to the Common Walnut ; cordiformis is a native 
of Japan and a conspicuous tree by reason of its large handsome 
leaves, which are often 2^ feet long, the male flower catkins are 
also very striking, for they are frequently more than 12 inches long ; 
mandshurica and Sieboldiana, the former from Manchuria and the 
latter from Japan, are very similar trees. Nigra, the Black Walnut 
of North America, is an important timber tree in the United States, 
whilst it might also be grown as a timber tree in this country : in the 
south of England it may be seen between 70 and 100 feet high, the 
leaves are handsome, and the timber almost black in colour, the nuts 
have very hard shells and small kernels. Regia is the Common Walnut, 
it is widely distributed from the Caucasus to the Himalaya, and is 
largely grown throughout Southern and Central Europe and in the 
United Kingdom, its value as an ornamental tree and nut bearer is 
well known, whilst its timber is extremely popular for the manu- 
facture of furniture, etc. There are several varieties, of which laciniata 
has finely cut leaves ; maxima, large fruits ; and monophylla, often 
single-lobed leaves. 

J uncus (Rush). — An extensive group of plants (Natural Order 
Juncaceae), which occur principally in wet and boggy places. They 
flourish by the side of water, but many other plants are more effective 
under similar conditions. A striking plant is Juncus effusus spiralis, 
in which the leaves are arranged in a peculiar corkscrew-like fashion. 
What is known as the Porcupine Rush, in which the leaves are banded 
with white after the manner of the spines of the Porcupine, is now 
classed as Scirpus, under the name of Scirpus lacustris zebrinus. 

Juniperus (Jumper). — This is an evergreen family of trees and 
shrubs belonging to the Natural Order Coniferae. They are found 
in Europe, Asia Minor, Asia from the Himalaya northwards, and in 
North America and the West Indies. Many are hardy and one is a 
native of the British Isles. They are used largely for garden decora- 
tion, and usually give the best results on chalky soil. The tall- 
growing kinds form handsome small trees, whilst the dwarfer ones 
are useful for planting on dry banks. The leaves are of two kinds, 
one being linear, flat, and sharp-pointed, and the other scale-like 
and pressed closely to the branch. Both kinds are often found on 
the same plant. Although they prefer chalky soil. Junipers thrive 
in moist loam, but are not adapted for planting in or about smoky 
towns. The species are often increased by seeds, and the varieties 



240 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

by cuttings inserted in August in sandy soil in a cold and closed 
frame. No regular pruning is required, but a little shaping may be 
done now and then in summer. 

A selection of the chief sorts is as follows : Chinensis, a Chinese 
tree, which extends to the Himalaya, and is also found in Japan, 
though the typical kind has green leaves, there are several varieties, 
e.g. aurca, with golden foliage, and glauca, with bluish leaves. Com- 
munis, native of the British Isles, is found as a bush, 2 to 5 feet high, 
from the South of England to the Highlands of Scotland : there are 
many varieties, of which alpina aurea, aurea, and fastigiata are dis- 
tinct. Sabina, the Common Savin, from the mountains of Europe, 
is a dwarf plant up to 3 feet high, the vars. prostrata and procumbens 
being scarcely i foot high. Virginiana, an American kind, is interest- 
ing as being the tree which is most popular for the manufacture of 
the casings of pencils ; the wood is known as Red Cedar. There are 
many more species, for descriptions of which textbooks on Conifers 
should be consulted. 

Jussieua. — ^Most of these, which belong to the Evening Prim- 
rose family (Onagraceae), need glass protection, but Jussieua natans, a 
native of North America, is quite hardy. It is a bog plant, and 4 
to 5 feet high, with long Willow-like foliage, which turns deep crim- 
son in autumn, and yellow flowers, suggestive of those of the Evening 
Primrose, borne in summer. 

Kaffir Lily. — {See Schizostylis COCCINEA.) 

Kalmia. — A small class of evergreen and sub-evergreen shrubs be- 
longing to the Heather family (Ericaceae), and native of North America. 
They give the most satisfactory results when planted in moist, peaty 
soil, but they also thrive in loam providing it contains little or no lime. 
They are perfectly hardy, and may be planted almost anywhere in 
the United Kingdom where the hardier kinds of Rhododendrons 
thrive. Kalmia latifolia, the Calico Bush of North America, is the 
most vigorous ; growing from 3 to 6 feet high, it is recognised by 
its large, oval, dark green. Rhododendron-like leaves and heads of 
white rose-tinged flowers which appear in June. It is usually in- 
creased by means of seeds, but seedlings grow very slowly for several 
years. Isolated specimens are sometimes effective objects on the 
outskirts of lawns. Kalmia angustifolia is sometimes called the 
Sheep Laurel in North America, its leaves being considered to be 
poisonous to sheep ; it is a very variable plant, and its numerous 
varieties are met with from a few inches to 3 feet in height ; the 
t5^e is from 2 to 3 feet high, with evergreen, ovate leaves, each about 
I inch long, and the rose-coloured flowers appear in May from the 



KAULFUSSIA AMELLOIDES 241 

leaf axils about the points of the shoots. They are very showy, 
but the vars. rosea and rubra, dwarfer plants, are superior. Nana is 
of very dwarf habit. Kalmia glauca is also a showy bush with rose- 
coloured flowers which open in advance of those of the other species ; 
it may be partly evergreen or deciduous, according to the season ; the 
leaves are small and silvery on the under surface. It often blooms 
in April, and grows from i8 to 24 inches high. Propagation of the last 
two kinds is by division or seeds. No pruning, but the flower-heads 
should be removed from Kalmia latifolia when the flowers fade. 

Kaulfussia amelloides {Cape Aster). — This pretty little summer 
flowering annual, which belongs to the Daisy family (Compositae), 
and comes from South Africa, is invariably referred to under the 
above name in gardens and seed lists, though, according to botanists, 
it should be known as Charieis heterophylla. It reaches a height of 
about 6 inches, and forms a mass of light blue Daisy-like flowers, 
borne on slender stems in summer ; there are white and red flowered 
varieties. The seed is sown in a warm, sunny spot in April, and the 
young plants thinned to about 8 inches each way. 

Kerria japonica {Jew's Mallow) is a showy, golden-flowered shrub 
belonging to the Rose family (Rosaceae). It is a native of China, 
and forms a spreading bush of twiggy branches 2 to 3 feet high ; the 
flowers are about i inch across, and appear during April or early 
May. There is a double-flowered variety which is much more vigor- 
ous and of more erect growth than the type ; it grows from 5 to 8 feet 
high, and its golden flowers are from i| to 2 inches across. It was 
introduced long before the typical kind, and was at first called Cor- 
chorus japonicus. There are also varieties with silver and gold varie- 
gated leaves ; the double-flowered form is, however, superior to the 
others. Kerrias thrive in well-drained loamy soil, are easily increased 
by means of soft cuttings in summer, and the old shoots should be 
well thinned out as soon as the flowers fade. The double-flowered 
variety is useful for forcing in pots for the greenhouse. 

Kidney Vetch — {See Anthyllis.) 

Kitaibelia vitifolia. — A vigorous-growing herbaceous perennial, 
belonging to the Mallow family (Malvaceae), and native of Eastern 
Europe. It will reach a height of 6 to 8 feet, and the lobed leaves 
are of somewhat similar shape to those of a Vine. The flowers, about 
3 inches in diameter, are in some cases white, in others rose-coloured. 
It is more fitted for the wild garden than the herbaceous border ; 
propagation is by division in autumn. 

Kniphofia {Torch Lily, Red-hot Poker). — Striking perennials, 
members of the Lily family (Liliaceae), and native chiefly of South 
Q 



242 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Africa ; they are known also as Tritoma. There are many species 
and a large number of garden varieties. The best of all, and one 
that has given rise to the best garden varieties, is Kniphofia aloides 
(Uvaria). The large tufts of grass-like leaves of Kniphofia are of 
striking appearance, and especially when crowned by the erect spikes 
of bright-coloured blossoms in late summer and autumn. In some 
districts Kniphofias are none too hardy ; wet and frost affect the 
centres of the plants and cause them to decay. Thus in cold or wet 
districts, or where the soil is heavy, it is a good plan to treat them 
as is sometimes done with the Pampas Grass : at the approach of 
winter the leaves are gathered loosely together and protected by 
bracken. The drawback to this method is that when the protective 
material is removed in early spring the plants are liable to be injured 
by harsh winds, so that the practice is not to be recommended if 
avoidable. Leaves or bracken placed above the roots and about 
the base of the plants prove sufficient. By the end of the season 
the leaves often look rather shabby and are cut off, but this is an 
unwise thing to do, as they afford a certain amount of protection. 
Deep, well-drained soil is most suitable for the Kniphofias ; it should 
be dug deeply, well-decayed manure being mixed in. Replanting or 
dividing the plants should be carried out in spring, as the roots are 
then active and soon take possession of the soil. 

The chief species are : Kniphofia aloides, the ordinary kind, 
orange-red, which varies somewhat, 5 feet ; Burchelli, dark red, 
passing to orange, 4 feet ; caulescens, a kind that forms a decided 
stem, clothed with broad, glaucous foliage, dusky red flowers shading 
to buff, 5 feet ; Macowanii, light coral-red, 2 feet ; Nelsonii, narrow 
spikes, yellow, 2J feet ; rufa, yellow, tinted red, in thin tapering 
spikes, 4 feet, rather tender ; and Tuckii, yellow and red, with stiff 
Yucca-like leaves, 4 feet. 

Good garden varieties are : Canary Bird, j^ellow, 2 feet ; Chr3's- 
antha, rich chrome-yellow, 3 feet ; Goldelse, thin, tapering spikes, 
soft yellow ; John Benary, rich orange-red, 5 feet ; Lemon Queen, 
lemon-yellow, 5 feet ; Nobilis, orange-red, 6 feet ; Pyramidalis, yellow 
and red ; Star of Baden-Baden, bronze-yellow, 6 feet ; and Triumph, 
yellow and scarlet, 5 feet. 

Kochia {Summer Cypress). — This very distinct annual, which is 
native of Southern Europe, and belongs to the Natural Order Cheno- 
podiaceae, has come very much to the front within recent years, 
at first under the name of scoparia, though now known as tricophj'lla. 
The flowers are insignificant, and the plant depends for its beauty 
upon the changing tints of its graceful foliage and its symmetrical 




AN EVENING PRIMROSE (OENOTHERA YOUNGII) 



KOELREUTERIA PANICULATA 243 

and uniform growth. Throughout summer the foHage is of a delight- 
ful shade of light bright green, and the plants well deserve their 
popular name of Summer Cypress, but towards autumn it becomes 
suffused with purple, gradually deepening until it is of a purplish- 
crimson. The Kochia is generally used as a " dot " plant in the 
summer flower garden. It is best to sow seeds in a greenhouse in 
March, and grow the young plants there or in a frame, giving plenty 
of air. They will then be well established in 4-inch pots by bedding- 
out time, and when planted they grow quickly. Seeds may also 
be sown out-of-doors in April ; the resulting plants will be very effec- 
tive late in the season. Ordinary garden soil is suitable. 

Koelreuteria panicuiata is a tree with handsome foliage, belong- 
ing to the Natural Order Sapindaceae. It is a native of China, and 
quite hardy in the Midlands and South of England, where it forms 
a wide-headed tree up to 40 feet high. The leaves are divided into 
numerous segments or leaflets, and on young, vigorous specimens are 
12 to 18 inches long by 9 to 12 inches wide. Towards the end of 
July, large terminal panicles of small yellow flowers are produced, 
which in sunny years are followed by inflated triangular fruits, enclosing 
hard black seeds. Koelreuteria bipinnata, ako from China, is of 
modern introduction ; its leaves are larger than those of the older 
kind, but it appears to be less hardy. Plant in ordinary garden soil 
of good quality, increase by seeds, and prune in summer to keep 
the plants shapely and the leaders clear. 

Laburnum. — A popular and important group, belonging to the 
Pea family (Leguminosae), which contains some of our most orna- 
mental trees. Three kinds are in cultivation : alpinum, a native of 
Europe, and often called the Scotch Laburnum ; caramanicum, a 
shrubby species from Asia Minor, which bears its yellow flowers in 
September, and is of little value ; and vulgare, the Common Laburnum, 
a tree found wild in various parts of Europe. In addition there are 
many garden varieties and a number of hybrids. The Laburnums 
thrive in any part of the country in ordinary garden soil, and with- 
stand a fair amount of exposure. The species are increased by seeds, 
and the varieties and hybrids by grafting upon the Scotch or Common 
Laburnums. When young, the trees may be pruned sufificiently to 
keep them shapely, but little pruning should be done to old trees, 
and it is a mistake to remove old branches. Although usually planted 
as specimen trees, the Laburnums are sometimes used as hedges 
and for arches. In such cases the young shoots are cut back annually. 
Laburnum alpinum is a tree from 15 to 40 feet high, and is distin- 
guished from the commoner kind by its larger and darker leaves, 



244 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

better habit, and later flowering season. There are several varieties : 
autumnalis, which often blooms at the normal time in June and 
again in September ; fragrans, with more fragrant flowers than the 
type ; and grandiflorum, with very fine inflorescences, are the best. 

Laburnum vulgare grows into a somewhat similar-sized tree, but 
the foliage is less luxuriant, and the inflorescences, borne in May, are 
smaller. It also has many varieties, of which Alschingeri, Carlieri, 
aureum, and Jacquinianum should be grown. The kinds known as 
Parksii, Vossii, and Watereri are hybrids between these two species ; 
the first-named bears racemes up to 15 inches in length, whilst Watereri 
produces racemes 8 inches or more long and is very floriferous. 

Laburnum Adami is interesting, as it bears racemes of yellow 
flowers, purple flowers, and shoots, leaves, and flowers similar to those 
of Cytisus purpureus. It occurred in the first instance as a graft 
hybrid after Cytisus purpureus had been grafted upon Laburnum 
vulgare, and its peculiarities have been perpetuatedj It is often 
called the Purple Laburnum. 

Lactuca {Flowering Lettuce). — Perennial and annual herbs, native 
of Europe, and belonging to the Daisy family (Compositae). Compara- 
tively few are sufficiently ornamental to find a place in the garden. 
They are easily grown in ordinary garden soil in sun or partial shade. 
Increase is by division of the clumps in autumn or spring and by 
seeds sown on a border outside during April or May. The name 
Mulgedium is sometimes used instead of Lactuca for some of the kinds. 
The chief sorts are : alpinum (Blue Alpine Sow Thistle), which has 
purple-blue flower-heads in July and August, and attractive foliage, 
3 feet ; Bourgaei, deep violet, July and August, 3 feet ; gigantea, 
pale blue, shaded pink, semi-double flowers, 2 inches across, July to 
September, 5 feet ; Plumieri, bright purple or blue, large graceful 
panicles of bloom from July to September, very striking, 6 to g feet. 

Lady Fern. — {See Asplenium.) 

Lagenaria {Bottle Gourd). — There is only one species, Lagenaria 
vulgaris, but there are numerous varieties or sorts differing chiefly 
in the size and shape of the fruits ; they belong to the Natural Order 
Cucurbitaceae. It is a common climbing annual in the tropics of 
Asia and Africa, but can be grown outside in this country in 
summer. Sow the seeds in pots in a cool greenhouse or frame during 
April, and plant the seedlings late in May or early in June in light, 
rich soil in a sunny position. 

Lagurus {Hares Tail Grass). — The only kind, Lagurus ovatus, 
is a hardy annual Grass (Natural Order Gramineae), of considerable 
value in the flower border and for cutting both in the green state 



LAMIUM 245 

and dried for use in winter. Seeds may be sown in a cold frame in 
August or September, and the young plants set outside in tufts in 
the border in spring. A second method is to sow the seeds in a cold 
frame during March, or in April or May where the plants are to 
flower. The Hare's Tail Grass thrives in ordinary well-drained garden 
soil in a sunny position ; it blooms from June to September, according 
to when the seeds are sown, and grows about 12 inches high. 

Lamium {Dead Nettle). — This is not an important class, yet 
there are two or three plants which are worth growing. They belong 
to the Natural Order Labiatae, and thrive in almost any soil in sunny 
or partially shaded positions. Increase is by division of the roots 
in autumn or spring. Lamium maculatum has purple flowers from 
June to September, green and white foliage, grows about 6 inches 
high, and is native of Britain ; the var. aureum has golden-yellow 
leaves, and is very useful as an edging for borders and summer flower 
beds and as a groundwork for taller plants. An interesting hybrid is 
Lamium puralbum, a cross between two of our native wild plants (pur- 
pureum and album) ; it is a free-growing plant with shell-pink flowers. 

Lantana {Indian Nettle). — Tender, free-flowering shrubs, mem- 
bers of the Verbena family (Verbenaceae), very useful in beds and 
borders in summer. In gardens the species are seldom seen, those 
grown being forms of the South American kind, Sellowiana. Lantanas 
are readily propagated by cuttings inserted in pots of sandy soil on 
a greenhouse stage in spring or autumn. Suitable soil consists of 
2 parts loam, i part leaf-mould and decayed manure, together with 
a sprinkling of sand. For summer bedding, cuttings are rooted in 
August, kept in a greenhouse during winter, and in February are 
potted singly in small pots ; these are put in 5-inch wide pots early 
in April, and planted outside about the end of May. The tops must 
be pinched off to induce side shoots to form. When larger plants are 
required they may be kept for several years in large pots, these being 
plunged in the beds or borders during summer. In autumn lift and 
store them under the stage in a cool greenhouse, or in a frost-proof 
shed or cellar which is not too damp. The flowers are arranged in 
flatfish heads and comprise a fairly wide range of colours. A few 
of the best sorts are : Chelsea Gem, crimson and amber ; Drap d'Or, 
rich yellow ; Eclat, reddish-crimson ; Golconda, pink and purple ; 
La Neige, pure white ; Magenta King, purple-scarlet ; Marquis de 
Lakorta, yellow and purple ; Raphael, yellow and maroon ; Rayon 
de Soleil, deep yellow ; salviaefolia (delicatissima), violet-mauve. 

Lapageria rosea. — A half-hardy climbing plant (Natural Order 
Liliaceae) from Chili ; it is grown successfully out-of-doors in the 



246 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 




FLOWERING SHOOT OF LAPAGERIA 



south and west 
counties on a cool 
wall, but in most 
places needs a cold 
greenhouse facing 
north. It requires 
well - drained soil of 
peat, loam, leaf- 
mould, and sand. 
Increase is by layer- 
ing the shoots when- 
ever convenient. The 
long wire -like shoots 
may grow from 12 
feet to 20 feet in 
length. The leaves 
are thick and dark 
green. The drooping, 
bell-shaped flowers, of 
wax-like texture, are 
rosy-crimson, and last in good condition for some time ; the 
flowering season is summer and autumn. Spring is the best time 
to plant. 

Larch. — {See Larix.) 

Lardizabala. — The only species grown is Lardizabala biternata, 
an evergreen climbing shrub from Chili belonging to the Barberry 
family, Berberidaceae. Though usually grown in a greenhouse, it 
tlirives out-of-doors in mild districts. It needs well-drained compost 
of sandy loam and peat. The flowers are purple, not very conspicuous, 
in drooping racemes, and open during early winter. Increase is by 
cuttings inserted in sandy soil under a bell-glass, or in a frame in 
late summer and autumn. 

Larix {Larch) is an important class of Conifers (Natural Order 
Coniferae), for it includes those trees which are known popularly as 
Larches, They are found in the mountains of Central Europe, more 
particularly the Tyrol, the Himalaya, China, Manchuria, Siberia, 
Japan, and North America, and in the majority of cases they are 
good timber trees. The European Larch (Larix europaea) is one of 
the most important coniferous timbers on the Continent, and is 
widely grown in the British Isles. Well adapted for growing in dense 
woods, it forms long trunks of fairly uniform diameter, trees 12 to 15 
inches in diameter at the base often measuring 4 or 5 inches at 70 feet 





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BLUE FLAX (LINUM PERENNE) TREE LUPIN (LUPINUS ARBOREUS) 





THE SHOWY JAPANESE LYSIMACHIA FALKLAND ISLAND WOOD SORREL 

CLETHROIDES (OXALIS ENNEAPHYLLA) 



LATHRAEA 247 

high. This, added to the strength of the wood, makes the Larch 
pecuHarly useful for telegraph and other poles. The timber is, how- 
ever, employed for many purposes, and is very popular for fencing. 
Trees growing in open positions are often from 70 to 100 feet high, 
with trunk diameters of 2 J to 4 feet. Apart from their value as 
timber trees, the Larches are decorative, and few trees are more 
beautiful in early spring when the fresh green leaves are developing, 
intermixed with the young bright-pink female cones. Larches must 
not be planted upon low-lying or wet and heavy land, for under such 
conditions they often fall a prey to the Larch canker disease, which 
is due to a fungus, Dasyscypha calycina. On exposed hill-sides, how- 
ever, where the land is well drained, excellent results are usually 
-obtained. Decorative trees should be planted in well-drained soil. 
Increase is by seeds which are usually sown in spring out-of-doors; 
Pruning of decorative trees is limited to keeping the leaders clear 
and removing lower branches when necessary. 

The chief kinds are : europaea, 70 to 120 feet, large timber tree, 
European Alps ; Griffithii, native of the Eastern Himalaya, an orna- 
mental tree with large cones — it is, however, rather tender. Leptolepis, 
from Japan, is a vigorous tree, which is often planted under forest 
conditions ; occidentalis, native of Western North America, a very 
large tree in its native country, but so far has been little grown here ; 
it is, however, being tried as a woodland tree. 
Larkspur. — {See Delphinium.) 
Lastrea. — {See Nephrodium.) 

Lathraea {Toothwort). — Lathraea squamaria is a parasite on the 
roots of trees, especially on the Alder. It belongs to the Natural 
Order Orobanchaceae. It has an upright, pale rose-coloured stem 
6 inches high, a few fleshy scales instead of leaves, springing from a 
fleshy rootstock in early spring, with dull-purple or flesh-coloured 
drooping flowers in spring. It is a perennial, native of Britain, and 
propagated by sowing seeds on the roots of the host-plant. 

Lathyrus {Sweet Pea, Perennial Pea). — Both the annual and 
Perennial Peas (Natural Order Leguminosae) are among the most 
beautiful of garden flowers, and the former are especially popular. 
During comparatively recent years the popularity of the Sweet Pea 
has increased by leaps and bounds, until at the present time it is 
more extensively grown than any other annual. To ensure an abund- 
ance of good flowers throughout a long season it is essential that the 
ground be dug quite 2 feet deep in autumn, the surface being left 
rough until spring. In the lower part of the trench yard manure 
ought to be mixed together with basic slag at the rate of 6 ounces 



248 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

to the yard run ; in the upper portion bone meal, soot, hme rubble, 
and wood ashes are useful. A sunny position is essential for the 
cultivation of good Sweet Peas. Seeds may be sown in pots early in 
October, the pots being kept in a cold frame during winter. In warm 
gardens of light soil seeds may be sown out-of-doors in autumn, though 
when this practice is adopted some losses must be expected. Most 
growers sow seeds in small pots in a greenhouse or frame in January, 
the seedlings being grown in a cool and airy atmosphere. The Sweet 
Pea is hardy, and the plants, even when quite small, must be grown 
as hardily as possible. Further sowings may be made out-of-doors 
in March and early April. Seedlings raised in pots in autumn are 
planted out in March and will bloom in early summer ; those raised 
in January are planted in April, and will begin to bloom in July. 
Seeds sown out-of-doors are put about i inch deep ; those sown in 
flower pots need be covered only by ^ inch or so of soil. There should 
be at least a distance of 5 or 6 inches between the plants ; those who 
grow for exhibition often put their plants 10 inches apart. A fort- 
night before sowing or planting out-of-doors it is a good plan to apply 
to each square yard or yard run of row 3 ounces of superphosphate 
of lime and i| ounces of sulphate of potash, mixing these and forking 
them into the soil some 6 inches deep. When the plants are growing 
freely an occasional sprinkling of equal parts of nitrate of soda and 
sulphate of ammonia, ^ ounce per yard, is helpful. It is essential to 
stake the plants in good time, otherwise they are apt to get broken. 
Hazel sticks with numerous twiggy branches are chiefly used when 
the Peas are grown for garden display ; those who cultivate for ex- 
hibition often use bamboo canes, Simplicitas netting, or wire or string 
stretched between strong uprights. Wliether Sweet Peas are sown 
in rows or in circular clumps is a matter for individual choice ; they 
certainly look very charming in either form. Ordinarily, Sweet 
Peas need little attention during the summer months beyond water- 
ing as becomes necessary, hoeing the ground to keep the surface 
loose, or applying a mulch of manure, and removing dead blooms to 
prevent the formation of seeds which soon put an end to the blossoming. 
But those who endeavour to get blooms of the highest quality on long 
stems pursue somewhat intricate methods of cultivation. Each plant 
is usually restricted to one or two stems, according to the vigour of 
the variety (the stronger having the greater number of stems), all 
side shoots are carefully removed, and artificial manures are used 
to give size and colour to the blossoms, while, in the first place, the 
ground is deeply and elaborately prepared for them. 

Named varieties are now so numerous that it is a difficult matter 



LAURUS NOBILIS 249 

to make a selection of the best. No two growers would probably 
agree in choosing a dozen sorts for the garden or for exhibition, and, 
moreover, new varieties appear annually. The following are good 
varieties : For the Garden — Clara Curtis, primrose ; Elfrida Pearson, 
pale pink ; Etta Dyke, white ; Lavender George Herbert, lavender ; 
Mrs. C. W. Breadmore, cream, pink edge ; Mrs. Cuthbertson, white 
and rose ; Princess Mary, lavender-blue ; Queen of Norway, purple- 
mauve ; Rosabelle, rose ; Scarlet Emperor, red ; Thomas Stevenson, 
orange-scarlet ; Zarina Spencer, orange-pink. For Exhibition — Bar- 
bara, orange-salmon ; Dobbie's Cream, cream ; Edith Taylor, cerise ; 
Elfrida Pearson, pale pink ; Hercules, pink ; King Manoel, deep 
maroon ; King White, white ; Maud Holmes, crimson ; R. F. Felton, 
lavender ; Scarlet Emperor, bright red ; Thomas Stevenson, orange- 
scarlet ; Wedgewood, pale blue. 

It is interesting to record here that the parent of the garden Sweet 
Pea is Lathyrus odoratus, a native of Sicily and Sardinia, and thought 
to have been first introduced in 1699. 

The Everlasting or Perennial Peas are favourite climbers for fences, 
screens, arbours, and porches in many gardens, and may be grown, 
supported by sticks, in the flower border. The plants thrive in 
ordinary garden soil, and are propagated by division of the clumps, 
preferably in spring, and by seeds sown in pots in a cold frame or 
out-of-doors from April to June. The best-known kind is the European 
Lathyrus latifolius, 6 to 8 feet high, with rose-coloured flowers from 
July to September ; alba and White Pearl are free-flowering white 
varieties ; and delicatus (Pink Beauty) has blush-pink flowers. The 
flowers, when cut, last well in water. Lathyrus grandiflonis, 5 to 6 feet 
high, has dainty crimson flowers during June and July ; it is native 
of South Europe. From the Orient we have Lathyrus rotundifolius, 
gay with its cherry-carmine flowers during May to July ; its height 
is from 4 to 5 feet. 

Laurel. — {See Prunus.) 

Laurus nobilis is the Bay Laurel, or Sweet Bay, of our gardens 
(Natural Order Lauraceae). It is a native of the Mediterranean 
region, and although fairly hardy in the British Isles, is sometimes 
injured by frost, and only attains its finest proportions in the milder 
counties. It is usually seen as a large bush 12 to 20 feet high, though 
sometimes it assumes a tree-like habit, and in South Wales has grown 
upwards of 40 feet in height. Male and female flowers are borne 
on different trees, the latter being followed by round black plum- 
like fruits ^ inch in diameter. It is, however, on account of its 
fragrant, evergreen foliage that this shrub is grown. The var. angusti- 



250 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

folia has smaller and narrower leaves than the type, whilst undulata 
is similar to the last-named except that the margins of the leaves 
are prettily undulated. Plant in ordinary garden soil, increase by 
cuttings inserted in a cold frame in July or August, and prune during 
summer to keep the plants shapely. 
Laurustinus. — {See Viburnum.) 

Lavandula {Lavender). — The " Sweet-blooming Lavender " 
(Natural Order Labiatae) is known to every flower lover. As a 
neat shrubby bush clothed with grey foliage it is ornamental at 
all seasons, while in summer the spikes of fragrant flowers are de- 
lightful. A dry day in August is the best time to gather these ; tie 
them in small bunches, and hang in a cool, dry place to dry for a 
few weeks before using. Lavender bushes must have a sunny posi- 
tion and thrive in most soils, preferring that which is light and sandy. 
Seeds can be sown in a cool greenhouse or frame from April to June, 
but cuttings form the most popular method of propagation. In October 
cottagers pull off a few of the side growths with a piece of old stem 
attached and plant them in the border i foot apart. Another way 
is to prepare cuttings about 3 inches long in the ordinary way and 
dibble them in a cold frame or under a handlight in sandy soil during 
September and October. 

There are several varieties of Lavender. The typical kind, Lavan- 
dula vera, grows wild in the Mediterranean region ; old bushes of this, 
some 4 feet in height, are fairly common in gardens, but, as a rule, 
young plants ought to be put in every four or five years and the old 
bushes discarded. Lavender makes a good dwarf hedge, and should 
be chpped after the flowers are over. The Dutch Lavender is a dwarf 
variety 12 inches high ; Munstead Variety is a free-flowering sort 
with long violet-blue spikes ; Bowles' Early is dwarf and early 
flowering, with purple-blue spikes ; Old Wliite, or alba, a white- 
flowered sort, is worth growing as a novelty. 

Lavatera {Mallow). — Annual and shrubby perennials (Natural 
Order Malvaceae), thriving in ordinary garden soil. Though of peren- 
nial character, the shrubby kinds are best treated as biennials, except 
in the warmer parts of the country, where in time they develop into 
large bushes. Lavatera arborea (the Tree Mallow), 6 to 10 feet 
high, has large handsome leaves, and is sometimes used in summer 
bedding ; the purple flowers open from July to September ; it is native 
of Europe, including some parts of our sea coast. As a decorative 
garden plant, the var. variegata, of which the leaves are mottled 
with creamy-white, is more showy ; it is used for summer bedding. 
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LAYIA 251 

pale rose flowers in summer ; while Olbia, 4 to 6 feet, has rose-pink 
blossoms from June to August — it is wild in Southern Europe. These 
shrubby Mallows are raised from seed sown in a cold frame during 
July, and except in the warmer counties need the protection of a 
cold frame during the winter ; those used for summer bedding are 
also grown from seeds sown in a warm greenhouse in February. 

The Annual Mallows are very showy plants, about 3 feet high, 
and thrive best in rich garden soil. Seeds may be sown under glass 
in March, but as seedling Mallows do not transplant readily, it is 
better to sow thinly, in April out-of-doors, where the plants are to 
flower. They are free-growing, and must not be crowded ; a space 
of from I foot or even 2 feet in good soil is none too much to leave 
between them. Lavatera trimestris is a native of the Mediterranean 
region ; the best varieties are : rosea splendens, rosy-pink ; alba 
splendens, white ; and Loveliness, rosy-red. 

Lavender. — {See Lavandula.) 

Layia. — Only one kind, Layia elegans, is grown to any extent. 
This is a hardy annual, about i foot high, and has large yellow Daisy- 
like blooms in summer, prettily edged with white. It belongs to the 
Daisy family (Compositae). The var. alba has white flowers. These 
plants prefer light, well-drained soil, and last in flower throughout 
the summer ; they are attractive as an edging to a large bed or in 
groups along the front of a sunny flower border. Seeds are sown late 
in March or early in April out-of-doors where the plants are to flower. 

Ledum. — Three kinds of Ledum are in cultivation, all being per- 
fectly hardy throughout the British Isles ; they belong to the Heather 
family (Ericaceae). They are Ledum glandulosum, from the moun- 
tains of California, British Columbia, and Alaska ; latifolium, from 
North America, which is sometimes spoken of as Labrador Tea ; and 
palustre, a native of the northern and arctic regions. They form com- 
pact bushes several feet across, and from 6 inches to 2 feet high (the 
latter height being rare), with small evergreen leaves, which are often 
covered with a dense mass of felty hairs on the under surface and 
are pungent when bruised. The white flowers are borne freely in 
dense, flattened heads during late spring and early summer. As is 
the case with most other plants allied to Heather, they object to 
soil containing hme, and show a preference for sandy peat and a 
moist situation. Propagation is often effected by means of layers, 
but more vigorous and generally healthier plants are those which 
have been raised from seeds. Such plants, however, grow very slowly 
for several years. The Ledums may have a position in the front 
of the shrubbery, or with the Heaths. Pruning is unnecessary. 



252 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Leiophyilum buxifolium (Sand Myrtle) is a charming little 
shrub from the mountains of New Jersey, Carolina, Florida, etc., 
belonging to the Heather family (Ericaceae). It is known under the 
common name of Sand Myrtle, and has been called various botanical 
names, including Ammyrsine buxifolia and Ledum buxifolium. Of 
compact habit, it grows from 6 to 12 inches high, bearing small dark 
green Box-like leaves, and in May a profusion of small white pink- 
tinged flowers in close-packed heads. At flowering time little can 
be seen of the leaves. Soil which will do for Heaths or Rhododen- 
drons suits quite well for this plant. Propagation is often effected 
by layers or division of old clumps, but better plants are produced 
from cuttings or seeds. Pruning is unnecessary. The var. pros- 
tratum is even dwarfer than the typical kind, and may be planted 
in the rock garden. 

Lemna (Duckweed). — Herbaceous annual floating plants (Natural 
Order Lemnaceae) without stem or leaf, and bearing inconspicuous 
flowers. On the approach of cold weather the plants sink to the 
bottom of the pond or lake ; they are common on stagnant water. 
The Duckweeds increase very rapidly by buds, rapidly forming large 
floating masses on the surface in warm weather. 

Lent Lily. — {See Narcissus.) 

Leontopodium {Edelweiss). — The Swiss Edelweiss, Lepntopodium 
alpinum (Natural Order Compositae), is the most talked-of alpine 
plant. Countless accidents have resulted from endeavours to collect 
it in its native Alps. It is not, as a rule, successful in gardens 
in smoky districts, but in pure country air it thrives excellently on 
an exposed rockery in well-drained stony soil and a sunny position. 
Increase is by division in spring and by seeds sown during spring 
or summer in well-drained pans of sandy soil, Leontopodium alpinum 
has small yellow flowers enveloped in white, woolly leaf-like bracts 
and grey leaves ; it is about 6 inches high, and at its best in June 
and July. There are several so-called varieties, which are really 
geographical variations, namely, altaicum, from Russia; himalayanum, 
Himalaya ; sibiricum, Siberia ; and transylvanicum, from Austria. 

Leptosiphon. — In some botanical lists Leptosiphon (Natural 
Order Polemoniaceae) is merged in Gilia, but for garden purposes it is 
distinct, and the name Leptosiphon is used. All varieties are annuals 
thriving in ordinary garden soil ; they are useful in the rock garden 
and as an edging to beds and borders. The seeds are sown outside 
during August for early flowering, and in April where the plants 
are to bloom in summer and autumn. The chief sorts are : andro- 
saceus, lilac-purple, 6 to g inches, California ; aureus, golden-yellow. 



LEPTOSYNE 253 

compact, 3 to 6 inches ; hybridus, a mixed strain, including numerous 
shades of colour, 3 to 6 inches ; and roseus, delicate rose, 3 to 6 
inches. Snow-white is a pure white variety, 3 or 4 inches high, one 
of the best for an edging. 

Leptosyne. — Californian annuals and perennials (Natural Order 
Compositae) with Coreopsis-hke flowers, very useful for cutting, 
and of value in the garden. Leptosyne Stillmanni, golden-yellow, 
18 inches high, blooms throughout the summer ; from seed sown 
outside in April, the plants flower in five or six weeks ; an excellent 
annual for beds and groups in the border. Leptosyne maritima, 
2 feet, has large bright yellow flowers in late summer and autumn ; 
this kind is rather tender in some districts, seed being sown in June, 
and the plants kept in a frame during winter ; or it may be raised in 
a heated greenhouse in early spring for planting out-of-doors in May. 
Rather light soil and a sunny position suit these plants. 

Lespedeza. — Only one species, Lespedeza bicolor, is much grown 
in gardens ; this is a shrubby plant belonging to the Pea family 
(Leguminosae), 4 feet or more high, native of North China and Japan. 
The small. Pea-like, rosy-purple flowers are freely produced in large 
terminal panicles in autumn, while the pinnate leaflets add to the 
beauty of the plants. The annual growths should be cut down to 
the ground each year in February or March. Ordinary light garden 
soil is suitable, and increase is by division of the rootstocks in spring 
or by seeds sown in a cool greenhouse or frame from March to June. 
This plant is not suitable for cold districts. 

Leucojum (Snow/lake). — A small group of bulbous plants (Natural 
Order Amaryllidaceae) with leaves resembling those of the Daffodil, 
and large fragrant Snowdrop-like flowers. They succeed in light 
loamy soil, and when once planted should be left undisturbed for 
some years. They are suitable for the rockery, wild garden, and 
open woodland. September and October are the best months in 
which to plant the early flowering kinds ; while Leucojum autumnale 
is planted in spring. Increase is by offsets, which may be lifted 
and divided at the times recommended for planting. The bulbs 
should be covered with 3 or 4 inches of soil. The chief kinds are : 
aestivum (Summer Snowflake), white, tipped with green, several 
flowers on a stem. May and June, 18 inches, native of Southern and 
Central Europe, including Britain ; autumnale, white, tinted with 
rose, September, 4 to 6 inches high, Mediterranean region ; pul- 
chellum (syn. Hernandezii), white. May, 18 inches, from the Balearic 
Isles ; and vernum, the Spring Snowflake, white green-tipped 
flowers in April, native of Southern Europe. 



254 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Leucophyta. — Only one species is commonly grown, Leucophyta 
(syn. Calocephalus) Brownii, an Australian shrubby plant with 
attractive, silvery-grey stems and leaves ; it belongs to the Daisy 
family (Compositae). It is a favourite plant for summer bedding. 
Propagation is by cuttings inserted in pots of sandy soil during August ; 
the plants are often kept for several years, as they grow slowly. During 
winter both these and the rooted cuttings must be kept on a shelf 
in the greenhouse, giving httle water ; they are planted out in May 
or early June, and brought under glass again at the end of September. 
The plants reach a height of 2 feet or more in time. 

Leucothoe Catesbaei is the best-known plant in this group, 
which is a member of the Heather family (Ericaceae). It is an ever- 
green shrub from the South-East United States, and often grows 
about 2 feet high, but under good conditions it sometimes attains 
a height of between 3 and 4 feet. The branches are arching and 
clothed with ovate, long-pointed leaves 3 to 4 inches long ; the white 
flowers appear in axillary, pendent racemes, 2 to 3 inches long, in 
May and June. This is a peat-loving shrub, but can be grown in 
loam if lime is not present, and gives the best results under conditions 
favourable to Heaths and Rhododendrons. It increases by stems 
from the rootstock, and these are sometimes detached and used for 
propagation, but seedlings form the most vigorous plants. A few 
old branches may be thinned out each year after the flowers have 
fallen. A second kind is Leucothoe axillaris, which is also found 
in the South-East United States. 

Lewisia. — Californian rockery plants, belonging to the Natural 
Order Portulacaceae, of considerable beauty and interest. They 
have fleshy leaves and richly coloured flowers in summer and autumn. 
A sunny position and a well-drained soil are essential, for while the 
plants delight in moisture in summer, it is harmful in winter ; a 
compost of sandy loam, peat, and small pieces of stone is suitable. 
Increase is by seeds sown in slight warmth under glass in spring, and 
by division of the roots during March. The chief kinds obtainable 
are : Cotyledon, rosy-pink, leaves in a rosette ; Howellii, rosy-pink, 
in long, graceful panicles, thick leathery leaves ; Tweedyi, soft 
salmon-rose, thick leaves in a rosette ; oppositifolia, pure white, 
on slender stems, linear leaves, and rediviva, satiny-rose, dark green 
succulent leaves. 

Leycesteria formosa {Pheasant Berry). — A vigorous-growing 
shrub from the temperate Himalaya, belonging to the Honeysuckle 
family (Caprifoliaceae). It has several attractions, for some people 
cultivate it in large groups for the sake of its bright green bark in 




<'\< ■'A' rJ^ 





THE MARTAGON LILY ^LILIUM 
MARTAGON) 



THE WHITE TRUMPET LILY 
(LILIUM LONGIFLORUM) 





THE NANKEEN LILY (LILIUM 
TESTACEUM) 



THE ORANGE LILY (LILIUM 
CROCEUM) 



LIATRIS 255 

winter-time, while others prefer its showy inflorescences of creamy- 
white flowers, which appear amongst prominent dark-red bracts 
during several weeks in summer ; the bracts are persistent and set 
off the bright black fruits at a later date. It is better adapted to the 
warmer than the colder parts of the country, though it is usually 
only the ends of the branches which suffer from cold. Any good 
garden soil suits. Propagation is by cuttings or seeds, and pruning 
depends largely upon the object for which the bushes are grown. 
Those grown for their bark are cut down each spring, whilst bushes 
are thinned at the same time. 

Li air is. — Handsome border perennials, natives of North America, 
thriving in rich, well-drained, light soil ; they are members of the 
Daisy family (Compositae). Increase is by division of the fleshy 
roots in spring and by seeds sown in a cold frame as soon as ripe 
or in spring. Plant in a sunny open border. Liatris graminifolia 
bears spikes of rosy-pink flowers in August and September, 2 to 3 feet, 
(the var. dubia has slender stems, thickly furnished with rosy-purple 
flowers) ; pycnostachya (Kansas Grey Feather) is crimson-purple, 
4 feet, one of our best autumn border plants ; punctata has rosy- 
pink blooms in August and September, 12 inches ; scariosa, bears 
dark purple flowers in September, 2 to 3 feet ; spicata, rosy-crimson, 
2 feet, blooms in September and October. 

Libert! a {New Zealand Satin Flower). — The Libertias, which 
belong to the Iris family (Iridaceae), have grass-like foliage and 
beautiful spikes of white flowers. As they are natives chiefly of New 
Zealand, it is desirable to plant in rather a sheltered position in a 
well-drained compost of sandy loam and peat. Propagation is by 
careful division of the clumps in spring, and by seeds sown as soon 
as ripe in early autumn in a cold frame. Even when the plants are 
not in flower the evergreen grass-like leaves are attractive. The 
three most useful species for outdoor cultivation are : formosa, spikes 
of large white flowers, May, 2 to 2| feet. Chili ; grandiflora, pure 
white in spike-like panicles, June, July, 2| to 3 feet. New Zealand ; 
and ixioides, white, yellow stamens, June and July, 2 to 3 feet. New 
Zealand. 

Libocedrus. — This is a group of evergreen trees belonging to 
the Natural Order Coniferae. Four species are grown : chilensis, 
from the Chilian Andes ; decurrens, from Western North America 
(Oregon to South California) ; macrolepis, a new kind from China ; 
and Doniana, from New Zealand. Libocedrus decurrens is the most 
useful tree, the others being better adapted for the milder counties. 
It may be grown almost anywhere, where cool, moist soil and moist 



256 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

and pure atmospheric conditions prevail. Under such conditions it 
forms a tall, upright column of dense branches clothed with dark 
green leaves, specimens 50 feet high being often less than 15 feet 
wide and always imposing. Increase is by seeds, and pruning is 
unnecessary. 

Ligulapia.— (S^g Senecio.) 

Ligustrum (Privet). — The indiscriminate way in which various 
kinds of Privet have been planted has brought some discredit upon 
these shrubs, yet among them are many useful kinds, and even those 
that have been planted most widely have certain qualifications lacking 
in many other shrubs. They belong to the Natural Order Oleaceae. 
Ligustrum ovalifolium grows quite well beneath the shade of trees, 
whilst there are few cheaper or more rapid-growing hedge plants. 
It is, however, a " gross feeding " shrub, and soon impoverishes the 
ground if the roots are not cut well back once a year. It is a native 
of Japan, whilst various other kinds are found in the same country, 
China, and Europe. They are increased by cuttings, the hardier 
kinds placed out-of-doors in autumn and others in sandy soil under 
glass in summer. When outgrowing their positions they may be 
pruned vigorously during April, whilst hedges should be clipped 
several times between May and September if they are to be kept 
compact and neat. 

The following are the chief kinds : Delavayi, a graceful Chinese 
Privet of recent introduction, with small, evergreen, oval leaves and 
good-sized inflorescences of showy white flowers, suitable for the 
southern counties ; japonicum, from China and Japan, is a useful 
evergreen bush with bold handsome leaves, growing from 3 to 5 feet 
high, and bears upright panicles of white flowers during summer — 
coriaceum and involutum are compact varieties of rather stunted 
growth ; lucidum is a vigorous and useful evergreen from China, 
growing from 12 to 20 feet high and blooming freely ; ovalifolium, 
already alluded to, is widely grown for hedges, and its golden-leaved 
var. aureum is a showy and largely grown shrub, being a great favourite 
with owners of small gardens. 

Ligustrum sinense, from China, is a large bush or small tree up 
to 20 or 25 feet high ; its light green leaves are sub-evergreen, or 
sometimes quite evergreen, and the white flowers are succeeded by 
clusters of small black fruits ; massalongianum and strongylophyllum 
are of neat growth and suitable for the southern counties ; vulgare, 
the common British kind, is planted beneath trees, and is also used 
for hedges. 

Lilac. — (See Syringa.) 



LILIUM 257 

Lilium (Lily). — The Lilies (Natural Order Liliaceae) are the most 
beautiful of all hardy bulbous plants ; they vary in height from a 
few inches to 10 or even 12 feet, while the blooms are remarkably 
diverse in shape and rich in colour, and open throughout a long season, 
from May to October. A few amateurs make the Lily family their 
special hobby, and are able to cultivate some sixty species and varieties 
in various soils and positions. Some kinds grow freely in full sun in 
ordinary border soil, while others require some shade and special 
soil. The usual method of increasing Lilies is by offsets taken off 
at the seasons recommended for planting. Home-grown bulbs are 
best planted during October and November ; bulbs imported from 
Japan and elsewhere in February and March. The most important 
exceptions to this rule are candidum and testaceum, which should 
be planted during August or early September. So far as concerns 
the depth at which to plant Lily bulbs, they naturally divide into 
two groups, namely, those that root from below the bulb only and 
those that root from the base of the stem as well as from the bulb ; 
the former are covered with about 3 inches and the latter with 5 or 
6 inches of soil. 

Some Lilies are readily raised from seeds, and flower in from two 
to five years from sowing. Several kinds produce bulbils on the 
stems, which form a ready means of increase, notably tigrinum, sul- 
phureum, and bulbiferum. Others must be propagated by means 
of the scales that go to form the bulb ; they are broken off carefully, 
laid on pans of light soil, and covered with a sprinkling of sand ; 
young bulbs grow from the bases of the scales. Notes with regard to 
the soil and position best suited to individual kinds are given in the 
following pages. Lilies which prefer partial shade and a peaty, 
leafy compost, may be grown in association with hardy ferns. A 
few of the dwarf sorts are useful for planting in the rock garden. 

Lilium auratum, the Golden-rayed Lily of Japan, has large, fragrant 
flowers, white, marked with yellow and purple, in August ; it needs 
a compost of peat, leaf-mould, and sandy loam, and the bulbs should 
be covered with 6 inches of soil. It grows from 4 to 6 feet high, and 
prefers partial shade ; the plants are not usually long-lived. A few 
fine varieties are rubro-vittatum, macranthum, and Wittei. Lilium 
Brownii, a Chinese Lily, bears trumpet-shaped blooms, white inside 
and purple-brown outside, in July ; it thrives in peat, leaf-mould, 
and sandy loam, in a sunny or partially shaded spot, the bulbs being 
planted 5 or 6 inches deep ; it grows about 3 feet high. Lilium 
bulbiferum, with orange-red flowers in May and June, grows in ordinary 
border soil in a sunny spot ; it is from 3 to 4 feet high, and comes 

R 



258 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

from Central Europe. Lilium candidum (Madonna Lily), having pure 
white flowers in June, thrives in any ordinary border soil, preferably 
containing lime. It requires a sunny position, and should be planted 
in August, the bulbs being covered with 2 or 3 inches of soil. It at- 
tains a height of from 3 to 5 feet, and is a native of Southern Europe. 

Lilium chalcedonicum (Scarlet Turk's Cap), a native of Greece, 
will grow in ordinary ground in a sunny border, and should be covered 
with 2 or 3 inches of soil. It grows 3 to 4 feet high, and bears rich 
wax-red flowers in July. Lilium concolor, from China and Japan, 
bears orange-red blooms in July ; it thrives best in peat in a some- 
what shady spot in the rock garden, and should be planted 3 inches 
deep ; its height is from 12 to 18 inches. The var. Coridion has rich 
5^ellow blooms. Lilium croceum (Orange Lily), native of Southern 
Europe, bears orange-red flowers in the latter part of June and through- 
out July. It grows from 3 to 5 feet high, and should be planted 5 inches 
deep. Lilium davoiricum or umbellatum (Dahurian Lily) grows from 
2 to 3 feet high, and will thrive in ordinary soil in a sunny border ; 
its orange-red upright flowers are in terminal clusters. The bulbs 
should be planted at a depth of 5 to 6 inches. This Lily is native 
of Siberia and has numerous varieties, mostly of Dutch origin. Auran- 
tiacum, multiflorum, erectum, Cloth of Gold, Incomparable, Sappho, 
and Tottenhami are some of the most distinct, and all are easily grown. 

Lilium elegans (Thunbergianum) is a Japanese Lily, possessing 
numerous varieties that will thrive in the open border in light garden 
soil. They vary in height from 6 to 36 inches, and flower in June, 
July, and August, the colours ranging from yellow to rich crimson. 
The bulbs should be planted 4 inches deep. The following bloom in 
June and July : Prince of Orange, atrosanguineum superbum, bicolor, 
Orange Queen, Othello, Peter Barr, sanguineum, Van Houttei, and 
Willie Barr. The best August flowering ones are Batemanniae, 
venustum, and Wallacei. 

Lilium giganteum, a remarkable Himalayan Lily, forms a tuft of 
unusually large leaves and produces a thick flowering stem that may 
reach a height of 10 feet ; the immense tube-shaped blooms, which 
are white with green tinge and shaded with purple inside, open in 
July and August. This Lily needs a sheltered, partially shaded spot 
and deep soil consisting of loam, leaf-mould, peat, and sand. The 
bulb dies after flowering, though offsets are produced which may 
be used to increase the stock. If small bulbs are planted they take 
several years to reach flowering size ; larger ones may be expected 
to bloom in one or two years. The bulbs ought to be covered with 
4 or 5 inches of soil. 



LILIUM 259 

Lilium Hansoni, from Japan, bears yellow flowers, marked with 
brown spots, in June, and should be planted 4 to 5 inches deep, in 
ordinary border soil in sun or partial shade. Its average height is 
from 3 to 4 feet. 

Lilium Henryi, a handsome Chinese Lily, bears orange-yellow 
flowers in August and September. It grows from 5 to 8 feet high in 
ordinary border soil, and likes partial shade ; the bulbs should be 
planted 6 to 8 inches deep. Lilium longiflorum (Trumpet Lily), 
native of Japan, grows from 2 to 3 feet high, and may be planted 

4 to 5 inches deep in ordinary, light border soil, to which a little peat 
and leaf-mould have been added. 

Lilium Martagon (Turk's Cap Lily), from Central and Southern 
Europe, bears reddish-purple blooms in June and July. It needs 
merely ordinary soil in a half-shady position, and grows from 3 to 

5 feet high. The bulbs must be covered with 3 inches of soil. The 
var. album is a lovely white border Lily. Lilium monadelphum 
Szovitzianum (colchicum), having citron yellow blossoms in May and 
June, grows well in ordinary border soil in a sunny position, the 
bulbs being planted 3 or 4 inches deep. It grows from 4 to 6 feet 
high and is native of Caucasus and North Persia. Lilium pardalinum 
(Panther Lily), from California, with yellow blooms, shaded with 
orange and red, in July and August, needs a deep soil consisting chiefly 
of leaf-mould and peat, and requires shade from the midday sun. 
It grows from 5 to 8 feet high, and the bulbs should be covered with 
3 inches of soil. Lilium pomponium, a Lily from Lombardy, growing 

3 to 4 feet high, bears flowers of sealing-wax red shade, in June ; the 
bulbs should be planted 4 inches deep in ordinary soil in a sunny 
border. Lilium pyrenaicum, whose home is in the Pyrenees, will grow 
in ordinary soil in either sun or shade. It reaches a height of 3 feet, 
in its flowering season in May and June, when it bears greenish-yellow 
blooms marked with dark spots. It should be planted 2 to 3 inches 
deep. 

Lilium speciosum (lancifolium), a popular Japanese kind, thrives 
in ordinary soil to which a little peat and leaf-mould have been added, 
in sun or partial shade. It grows some 3 to 5 feet high, and has 
numerous varieties, varying from rosy red, through pink to white. 
Its flowering season is during late summer and autumn. A few 
distinct sorts are : album Kraetzeri, magnificum, Melpomene, punc- 
tatum, roseum, and rubrum. The bulbs should be covered with 

4 or 5 inches of soil. Lilium sulphureum, a Burmese Lily, bears 
in September and October very large trumpet-shaped flowers, sulphur- 
coloured, with brownish shading outside. It grows from 5 to 7 feet 



260 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

high in ordinary, well-drained border soil in a sunny spot. The 
bulbs should be planted 6 to 8 inches deep. Lilium superbum, native 
of the United States, grows about 5 to 7 feet high, and the bulbs need 
planting 4 inches deep in a soil made up of sandy loam, peat, and 
leaf-mould in a somewhat shady position. The graceful reflexed 
flowers, which are at their best in July and August, have an orange 
yellow centre shading to reddish-crimson, and are prettily spotted. 

Lilium tenuifolium is a graceful Siberian Lily, from 12 to 18 inches 
high, with narrow leaves, slender stems, and waxy-scarlet blooms 
in May and June ; it requires light loamy soil to which leaf -mould 
has been added. The bulbs must be covered with 2 inches of soil, 
and are preferably planted in a sheltered position in the rock garden: 
Lilium testaceum (Nankeen Lily) (also known as isabellinum and 
excelsum) bears fragrant citron-yellow blossoms in June and July, 
on stems 4 to 5 feet high. This kind is supposed to be a hybrid between 
candidum and chalcedonicum. It thrives in ordinary border soil in 
a sunny place, and the bulbs should be covered with 3 inches of soil, 
planting being done in August. 

Lilium tigrinum (Tiger Lily), from China and Japan, bears orange- 
red, black-spotted flowers, with refiexing segments in August and 
September. It grows about 3 to 5 feet high, and thrives in ordinary 
soil in a sunny border. The bulbs should be covered with 4 or 5 inches 
of soil. There are several varieties : Fortunei, with woolly stem, 
flowers somewhat later than the typical kind ; giganteum, has rich 
orange-scarlet flowers ; fiore pleno has double blooms ; and pseudo- 
tigrinum CMaximowiczii) is a late-flowering (October) variety without 
bulbils in the axils of the leaves; 

Lily of the Valley. — (See Convallaria.) 
Lime Tree. — {See TiLiA.) 

Limnanthemum peltatum (Fringed Buck Bean). — Though wild 
in Britain, this is a beautiful water plant ; it belongs to the Gen- 
tian family (Gentianaceae), and is sometimes known as Villarsia 
nymphaeoides. The roundish leaves float on the surface of the water 
freely, and in summer and early autumn the fringed yellow blossoms 
are very attractive. The Buck Bean thrives in shallow water where 
the roots can reach the mud ; if planted by a muddy bank it will 
gradually spread out into the water. Propagation is very easy by 
division, while seeds may be collected when ripe, and sown in mud 
along the water's edge. Though a pretty plant, it increases rapidly 
under congenial conditions, and is apt to encroach on choicer kinds; 
Limnanthes. — The only species grown in gardens is Limnanthes 
Douglasii, a hardy annual, native of North-West America, and 



LINARIA 261 

member of the Geranium family (Geraniaceae). It thrives freely in 
ordinary soil and is one of the best dwarf annuals for aatumn sowing. 
Sow seeds in autumn or spring where the plants are to flower. Self- 
sown seedlings may often be found. It grows 6 inches high, is of 
spreading growth, and bears fragrant yellow flowers edged with white. 

Linaria {Toadflax). — Annual and perennial plants, of dainty 
character, belonging to the Snapdragon family (Scrophulariaceae) ; 
valuable in the rock garden and border. Propagation of the peren- 
nial kinds is by cuttings inserted in a cold frame during August and 
September in pots of light sandy soil, by division of the clumps in 
March, or by seeds sown in a frame during April or May. The annual 
Toadflaxes should be sown during April where they are to flower. 
Well-drained, rather light soil suits the Toadflaxes best. 

The chief perennials are : alpina, purple and orange, a charming 
trailing plant for the rock garden and old walls, flowers freely from 
June to September and sows itself, native of Europe (there are white, 
alba, and rose-coloured, rosea, varieties) ; Cymbalaria (Kenilworth 
Ivy or Ivy-leaved Toadflax) bears lilac-blue flowers freely from May 
to September ; though a British wild plant, this is pretty in the rock 
garden and on old walls (the vars. alba and rosea are attractive). 
Dalmatica (syn. macedonica) has blossoms with orange-yellow lip, 
from June to August, a valuable border plant, 3 to 4 feet high, native 
of Dalmatia ; genistifoha is a showy border kind with light yellow 
flowers from June to September and pretty glaucous foliage, 4 feet, 
Europe and Asia Minor ; hepaticaefolia, a dainty trailing alpine for 
the rockery and old walls, with lilac blossoms, from June to August, 
Corsica ; origanifolia, violet flowers, orange throat, June to September, 
4 inches, rockery. South Europe. 

Linaria pallida, bearing violet flowers from June to August, is only 
3 inches high and suitable for the rockery or edge of the bog garden, 
Italy ; purpurea bears maroon-purple blossoms on slender, graceful 
stems in July and August, it has glaucous leaves and grows about 
3 feet high, Europe ; vulgaris Peloria is a curious form of our Wild 
Toadflax, 2 feet high, with pale yellow and orange blooms in July 
and August. 

The chief annual Toadflaxes are bipartita, lilac-purple and yellow, 
12 inches. North Africa ; maroccana White Pearl, a beautiful Toad- 
flax with white flowers, 12 inches (the var. Yellow Prince has yellow 
flowers) ; reticulata aureo-purpurea, purple-crimson and orange, 
9 inches. 

Lindelofia {Himalayan Hound's Tongue). — One species and two 
varieties of this blue-flowered perennial are grown in a few gardens. 



262 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

They belong to the Borage family (Boraginaceae). Ordinary well- 
drained border soil and a sunny position supply their needs. Pro- 
pagation is by division in autumn or spring, and by seeds sown under 
glass in spring or out-of-doors during April and May. Lindelofia 
spectabilis bears purple or violet-blue blooms from June to August, 
i8 inches, Himalaya ; the var. afghanica, deep purple, is summer 
blooming ; and praecox has bright blue flowers from April onwards. 

Lindera. — This is a group of shrubs belonging to the Natural 
Order Lauraceae, their near relative in the outdoor garden being 
the Sweet Bay (Laurus nobilis). Although of no special decorative 
value, their fragrant leaves make them interesting, wnilst the small 
golden flowers of some kinds are produced with sufficient freedom 
to render the plants attractive. Plant in light loamy soil or in loam 
containing a little peat. Increase is by seeds or cuttings, and pruning 
is carried out in summer merely to keep the bushes shapely. A few 
good kinds are : Benzoin, the Spice Bush or Benjamin Bush of the 
United States ; and glauca, hypoglauca, and triloba, from Japan; 

Linnaea {Twin Flower). — Linnaea borealis, the only species, is 
a trailing or creeping evergreen shrub belonging to the Honeysuckle 
family (Caprifoliaceae), native of Britain and other countries. This 
dainty little plant needs a rather shady position and peaty soil. The 
flesh-coloured, fragrant, pendulous flowers are in pairs, and open 
from May to July. It is propagated readily by division in autumn 
or spring, and by cuttings inserted in pots of sandy peat in a frame 
during August and September. 

Linum (Flax).— H.a.vdy perennial and annual plants (Natural 
Order Linaceae) notable for their graceful growth and free-flowering. 
They should be grown in a sunny position in rather light, well-drained 
soil. Some are suitable for the rock garden, others for the border. 
Seed forms a ready means of increasing both perennial and annual 
Flaxes, and is generally the most satisfactory method of propagation, 
as these plants dislike being disturbed. A few, notably arboreum, 
are increased by cuttings inserted in sandy soil in a cold frame during 
August ; while perenne is easily raised by division of the roots in 
spring; Sow seeds of the perennials out-of-doors during April and 
May, and the annuals in April where the plants are to flower. The 
annual sorts are : grandiflorum, brilliant red, 12 inches, summer, 
native of Algeria (var. rubrum, which is of richer colour, is generally 
grown) ; usitatissimum (Common Flax), pale blue, 18 inches to 3 feet, 
July and August, found wild in Europe. 

The most showy perennials are alpinum, blue, trailing, 4 to 6 inches, 
June to August, suitable for the rock garden, native of Europe, etc. ; 






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LIPPIA CITRIODORA 263 

arboreum, lemon- yellow, 12 inches, a showy shrubby kind, best planted 
in the rock garden, native of Crete ; austriacum, pale blue, 12 inches 
to 2 feet, June and July, Europe ; flavum, golden-yellow, 12 inches, 
June to September, Southern Europe, very effective in the rock garden ; 
monogynum, white, 18 inches, June to August, New Zealand ; nar- 
bonense, blue, 18 inches to 2 feet, June to August, Southern Europe ; 
perenne, pale blue, the most popular and easily grown perennial 
Flax, 12 to 18 inches, June to August, northern temperate regions ; 
perenne album is a pretty white variety. 

Lippia citriodora {Scented Verbena). — A popular shrub on account 
of its lemon-scented leaves ; it belongs to the Natural Order Ver- 
benaceae. It is native of South America, and is not generally hardy 
in the British Isles, although it might profitably be planted in more 
gardens, especially if placed at the foot of a warm wall. It thrives 
and makes a good-sized bush in the south and west counties and on 
the west coast of Scotland. Bushes 3 or 4 feet high have even been 
known to grow for many years in Essex gardens. It is also grown 
as a greenhouse and as a room plant. Cuttings may be rooted in 
sandy soil during spring and summer, and it thrives in ordinary 
garden soil. Cut the longer branches back in spring in order to keep 
the plants shapely. 

Liquidambar {Siveet Gum Tree).- — Three kinds, all trees, have 
been introduced : formosana, from China and Japan ; orientalis, 
from Asia Minor ; and styraciflua, from the United States. They are 
members of the Witch Hazel family (Hamamelidaceae). The last- 
named is the only one of any value in the British Isles, where it grows 
from 50 to 80 feet high, and is distinguished by silvery bark, glossy 
Sycamore-like leaves, and Plane-like fruits. Its chief asset is the 
rich autumnal colouring of the leaves, and at that season it is one 
of the showiest trees in the garden. It is known as the Sweet Gum 
Tree in America, and it is there valuable on account of its timber, 
which has a wide use for cabinet work, etc., being used under the 
names of Red Gum, Yellow Gum, and Satin Walnut. The last name 
is usually applied to the wood in this country. This tree is raised 
from seeds or layers, may be planted in ordinary garden soil, and 
should be pruned in summer to keep the trees shapely whilst young. 

Liriodendron Tuliplfera {Tulip Tree). — ^This was for long con- 
sidered to be the only representative, but within recent years a new 
kind has appeared from China under the name of Chinensis. They 
belong to the Magnolia family (Magnoliaceae). Liriodendron Tulipi- 
fera is found in the United States, where it forms a very large tree 
and produces valuable timber. Here, it often exceeds 100 feet in 



264 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

height, with a trunk diameter of 3 feet. It is commonly known as 
the Tuhp Tree, and is popular alike, for its handsome, curious- shaped 
leaves and yellow and green Tulip-shaped flowers, Thq timber is 
imported into this and other countries under the names of Wliite 
Wood and Yellow Poplar, and it is largely displacing Deal for the 
backs of cabinets, drawers, and other kinds of work. Plant in good, 
deep, loamy, well-drained soil, increase by imported seeds, and prune 
when young to keep the trees shapely. There are several variegated 
varieties, but they are no improvement on the type. The Chinese tree, 
Chinensis, appears to be quite as vigorous as its better-known relative. 

Liriope. — Only one species is grown in gardens, namely, Liriope 
spicata (syn. graminifolia), a native of China and Japan. It is a 
member of the Natural Order Haemodoraceae. The plants are ever- 
green with arching leaves 10 or 12 inches long ; the deep violet-blue 
flowers are small, closely arranged on the upper part of a stem 9 to 12 
inches high, and open from September to November. The Liriope 
thrives in ordinary garden soil, and prefers a sheltered, half-shady 
position. Increase is by division of the clumps during March and 
April, which is also the best time for planting. Ev^en more beautiful 
than the type is the variety variegata, with yellow leaves striped 
with green ; this is frequently used as a summer bedding plant. Lift 
the plants in autumn and store in a cold frame, planting out-of- 
doors again during May. Ophiopogon spicata variegata is another 
name for Liriope spicata. 

Lithospermum {Gromwell). — Dwarf alpine or rockery peren- 
nials, belonging to the Borage family (Boraginaceae). They thrive 
in well-drained sandy, peaty soil, and need a sunny spot. Increase 
is by seeds sown as soon as ripe or in spring in pots in a cold frame, 
by division of the clumps in autumn and spring, and by cuttings 
inserted in a cold frame during August. The most useful species are 
angustifolium, bright yellow, June, narrow foliage, 9 to 12 inches. 
North America ; canescens, rich yellow, June and July, grey foliage, 
9 inches, North-West America ; Gastoni, azure blue with white 
centre, 12 inches, Pyrenees ; graminifolium, deep blue drooping 
flowers, June to August, tufts of grass-like leaves, Italy ; prostratum, 
dark Gentian-blue flowers from spring to autumn, a dwarf evergreen 
of great beauty, the most popular kind for the rockery, native of 
South- West Europe — the var. Heavenly Blue has lovely azure- 
blue flowers. 

Loasa. — This is a comparatively little-known though a rather 
large group of hardy and greenhouse annual and perennial plants 
(Natural Order Loasaceae). Only three are worthy of mention here : 



LOBELIA 265 

hispida, yellow, a free-flowering half-hardy annual, July to August, 
12 inches, Peru ; lateritia (Chili Nettle), coral or brick-red, July and 
August, a twiner or climber for warm walls and fences, 6 feet or more 
high, a half-hardy perennial, but usually treated as a half-hardy 
annual, the plants being raised under glass in spring and put out-of- 
doors early in June ; vulcanica, white with red and yellow centre, 
July and August, half-hardy annual, 12 inches. New Grenada. The 
Loasas are readily raised from seeds sown under glass in spring, either 
in a warm greenhouse or cold frame, the former for preference. Plant 
out on a warm, sunny border in well-drained soil early in June. 

Lobelia. — This is a very large class of tender and hardy perennials 
and annuals, belonging to the Bellflower family (Campanulaceae). 
The best known are the dwarf summer bedding sorts. Lobelia car- 
dinalis and fulgens, which blossom in autumn, are also very popular. 

The herbaceous perennials are propagated by division of the roots 
or clumps in March, by cuttings made of the young shoots during 
April and May, inserted in pots of sandy soil in a frame ; a third 
method of increase is to sow seeds in a greenhouse during February 
to produce flowers in summer, or in a cold frame in May to give 
plants the following year. They delight in rich, moist soil and 
a partially shaded position. In cold and wet soil it is desirable to 
lift the roots in October and store them in boxes of light sandy soil 
in a frost-proof shed for the winter. Another method of protection 
is to place little mounds of old coal ashes over the clumps from Novem- 
ber to March. The four perennial species generally cultivated are 
cardinalis, scarlet, August to October, dark green leaves, 2h to 3 feet, 
North America ; fulgens, brilliant scarlet, August to October, dark 
bronze-red foliage, Mexico ; syphihtica, blue, July to October, 3 to 
4 feet, North America ; Tupa, reddish-scarlet, August to October, 
4 to 6 feet, ChiH. For garden decoration the following sorts obtained 
by cross-breeding are very showy ; the plants produce slender graceful 
spikes of flowers, 3 to 4 feet in height, clothed with blossoms of various 
shades from August to October ; Queen Victoria, Gloire de St. Anne's, 
Firefly, Lord Ardilaun, Carmineus, caerulea grandiflora, Gerardi, 
Magnificent, multiflora, Milleri, Orion, Jupiter, and Purple Emperor. 

The dwarf Lobelias are popular flowers for summer bedding. 
Lobelia Erinus, from South Africa, a tender perennial, is the parent 
of the numerous named varieties. There are two methods of pro- 
pagation : by seeds sown in a heated greenhouse during February 
or early March, and by cuttings taken in August and kept on the 
greenhouse shelf during winter. In February further cuttings may 
be rooted by taking off the young shoots and putting them in pots 



266 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

of sandy soil in a case in the greenhouse. LobeUas grow rapidly in 
spring, and in a month from inserting cuttings the tops of these can 
be taken off to form others. From fifty stock plants as many as a 
thousand can be obtained in spring ready to plant outside by the 
end of May. The plants thrive in rich, light garden soil in sunny 
beds and borders. The follovvmg are good named sorts, which must 
be propagated by cuttings : Barnard's Perpetual, rich blue, white 
centre ; Emperor William, deep violet ; Kathleen Mallard, deep blue, 
double ; Queen of Whites, dwarf, compact white ; Swanley Blue, 
bright blue ; Waverley, rich blue. Bedding Lobelias, taller and of 
spreading growth, are : speciosa, dark blue ; gracilis, blue (or white) ; 
and Hamburgia, a lovely blue trailing sort. These are especially 
useful for window boxes, vases, and hanging baskets. 

Lobelia tenuior (ramosa) is a beautiful half-hardy annual kind 
from Australia. It grows 12 inches high, and flowers freely from 
June to September. Seeds are sown in a heated greenhouse during 
February and March, the plants being put out-of-doors in beds and 
borders, or in window boxes and vases late in May. There are varieties, 
seeds of which are sold separately, with rich blue, pale blue, pure 
white, and rose-coloured blooms. 

Loiseleuria procumbens is a dwarf, prostrate shrub belonging 
to the Heather family (Ericaceae), closely allied to Rliododendron, and 
sometimes called the Alpine Azalea or Azalea procumbens. It is a 
native of the European Alps and other cold parts of the Continent, 
Asia, and America, whilst it also occurs in the Highlands of Scotland. 
Scarcely rising a couple of inches above the ground when at its tallest, 
it is frequently quite prostrate. The evergreen leaves are very small, 
and the white or pinkish flowers, each i to ^ inch across, appear during 
early summer, often in June. It should be planted in peaty soil in the 
rock garden, and increased by cuttings or seeds. Pruning is unnecessary. 

Lomaria (Hard Fern). — These are interesting and distinct ferns 
(Natural Order Filices) of dwarf growth. Division of the clumps is 
the usual means of increase, though if many plants are required they 
may be raised from spores. March is a good time to lift, divide, and 
replant. Plant in a shady spot in ordinary, well-drained soil con- 
taining a little leaf-mould. The best-known species is Lomaria Spicant, 
our native Hard Fern, sometimes grown as Blechnum Spicant. It has 
barren fronds, 8 or 9 inches, and fertile fronds, 12 inches long. There 
are numerous varieties, the best known being Aitkinianum, crested ; 
concinnum, crenulated margins to fronds ; cristatum, crest at ends 
of fronds ; plumosum, prettily divided fronds ; and trinervum 
coronans, divided pinnae, and crested. 



J*-— *1I. 





LONICERA 267 

Lonlcera {Honeysuckle). — This group (Natural Order Capri- 
foliaceae) includes the climbing and bushy shrubs which are known 
popularly as Honeysuckles. They are found in Europe, Asia, and 
North America, and two species are included in the British Flora. 
As a rule, the bushy kinds produce their flowers in pairs from the 
leaf axils of young shoots from the previous year's growth, whereas 
the blossoms of the climbing sorts are in fairly large bunches in the 
upper leaf axils or from the points of similar growths. The bushy 
kinds are suitable for planting in shrubberies or for forming specimen 
bushes, while those of climbing habit can be used on pergolas, fences, 
walls, or other supports. The last-named, with a few exceptions, such 
as sempervirens and etrusca, which are rather tender, are better 
adapted for northerly gardens than for those in the south, for in 
gardens in the warmer counties they often become covered with 
greenfly. Bush Honeysuckles are, as a rule, seen to the best advan- 
tage when planted in sunny positions where the shoots become 
thoroughly ripened. Pruning should take the form of thinning the 
branches after the flowers have fallen. Loamy soil is the most satis- 
factory, and increase is by seeds and cuttings. 

The chief kinds are : Caprifolium, a climbing kind with showy, 
fragrant, yellowish flowers ; etrusca is a very vigorous climbing plant 
from Southern Europe, it flowers with great freedom, the ends of the 
branches for a length of 3 feet being often covered with yellowish 
flowers : the var. superba is an improvement on the type, and may be 
grown out-of-doors in the southern counties and in a cold, sunny 
greenhouse elsewhere. Fragrantissima and Standishii are two Chinese 
bush kinds that bear white and cream-coloured flowers respectively 
during January and February ; Heckrotti is a climber which bears 
red flowers freely ; involucrata, one of the best of the bush kinds, is 
from North-West America, its golden tubular flowers are enclosed by 
dark reddish bracts which remain until the black fruits are ripe ; 
japonica is a free-flowering Chinese and Japanese climber bearing 
yellow fragrant flowers ; flexuosa and Halliana are good forms, whilst 
aureo-reticulata has golden variegated leaves ; Maackii is a free- 
flowering bush kind from China. 

Lonicera Periclymenum, the Common Woodbine or Honeysuckle, 
is one of the best climbers ; the vars. belgica and serotina are often 
grown. Two other useful plants are : sempervirens, a climber, and 
tatarica, a bush. 

Loranthus is a parasitic plant closely allied to the Mistletoe, 
belonging to the Natural Order Loranthaceae. Loranthus europaeus 
is a native of Southern Europe and the Orient ; it grows upon the Olive 



268 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 



and various other plants, and may be introduced to gardens in the 
south-west counties. 

Loropetalum Chinense is a semi-tender Chinese shrub belonging 
to the Witch Hazel family (Hamamelidaceae). It may be grown 
out-of-doors in the warmer counties, but must have the shelter of 
a greenhouse elsewhere. Mature specimens may be from 3 to 5 
feet high. The flowers are white, with narrow thread-like petals, 
reminding one of those of the Witch Hazels, and are borne in 
winter or early spring. It should be planted in warm, well-drained 
loamy soil containing a little peat or leaf- mould, and in the south- 
west may either have a place in the open or against a wall. Cuttings 
may be rooted during summer, and regular pruning is unnecessary. 
Lotus {Bird's foot Trefoil). — The only hardy kind worth growing 
is Lotus corniculatus flore pleno, a double variety of the wild Bird's- 
foot Trefoil ; it belongs to the Pea family (Leguminosae). The 

flowers, opening in summer 
and autumn, are yellow striped 
with red, and are effective in 
a sunny rock garden or old 
wall. A second kind from the 
Canary Islands, Lotus pelio- 
rhynchus, is really a green- 
house plant, but is grown out- 
of-doors in warm gardens ; it 
has long trailing growths, 
greyish stems and foliage, and 
crimson-scarlet Pea-like flowers 
in summer ; on account of its 
grey leaves and stems it is 
sometimes used as a carpeting 
plant in summer bedding. In- 
crease is by seeds sown in a 
greenhouse in summer. 

Lunaria (Honesty). — Lu- 
naria annua or biennis, mem- 
ber of the Wallflower family 
(Cruciferae), is a favourite 
plant in old-fashioned gardens ; 
it is biennial, and thrives in 
almost any soil and position, 

SEED PODS OF HONESTY ^^^^ ^" S^^^^" ^^ ^' ^ "^^^^^ 

(Lunaria biennis) of Northern Europe. Sow the 




LUPINUS 269 

seeds outside during April and May on a border, and transplant in 
autumn where the plants are to flower. Self-sown seedlings usually 
come up freely every year. The plants grow about 2 feet in height, 
and have lilac-purple flowers in early summer, followed in autumn 
by silvery seed pods which are much valued for winter decoration 
when cut and dried ; there is a beautiful white variety. Lunaria 
rediviva, a perennial, native of Europe, has fragrant purple flowers 
in May and June, smaller than those of the common kind. 

Lupinus (Lupin). — The Lupins, which belong to the Pea family 
(Leguminosae), comprise hardy annuals, herbaceous perennials, and 
shrubs. All thrive in ordinary garden soil, and prefer a sunny position. 
They are equally valuable for large and small gardens, being showy 
and easy to grow. 

The Annual Lupins are suitable for groups in borders and for 
beds ; they vary from 12 inches to 3 feet in height, and flower from 
late June or early July until the end of September. Seeds are sown 
in a heated greenhouse or cold frame during March, and out-of-doors 
in April, where the plants are to flower. The Mexican Lupin (Hart- 
wegii) grows about 2 feet high and has blue and white flowers ; the 
vars. alba and azurea, azure-blue, are distinct and attractive. Lupinus 
subcarnosus, from Texas, 12 inches high, has violet-blue flowers with 
white centre ; mutabilis, 3 to 4 feet high, has blue and white or pink 
and cream flowers, its native home is New Grenada ; densiflorus 
(Menziesii) is a lovely yellow Lupin, 18 inches high, from California; 
from the same country comes nanus, 12 inches high, having dainty 
lilac and blue flowers. Then we have a few garden Lupins, for instance : 
hybridus atrococcineus, scarlet and white, 2^ feet ; Dwarf Blue and 
White, I foot ; Dwarf Yellow, fragrant, i foot ; Dwarf Carmine and 
White, I foot ; Dwarf Pink, i foot ; and Tall Dark Blue, 3 feet. 

The Perennial Lupins are invaluable hardy border flowers. They 
are of easy cultivation in ordinary soils. In addition to the old blue 
kind, Lupinus polyphyllus, from California, and its white variety, 
many sorts have been raised in gardens during recent years. A few 
of the best of these are : Moerheimi, pink ; Blue Cloud, lavender- blue ; 
Butterfly, purple and white ; Dusky Prince, dark violet-purple ; 
Excelsior, mauve ; Rosy Gem, rose ; and Taplow Purple, purple. 
The plants grow from 3 to 5 feet high, according to the quality of 
the ground, and bloom in May and June ; or, if seedlings are also 
grown, one can have Lupin flowers until frosts spoil their beauty. 
September or early October is the best time to plant or to replant. 
Seeds sown in a heated greenhouse during February will produce 
plants to bloom in late summer and autumn, or they may be sown 



270 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

out-of-doors from April to June to obtain flowering plants a year 
later. A great variety of shades of colour can be raised from a 
packet of mixed seeds. Lupinus nootkatensis is a North American 
Lupin, 2 feet high, bearing purple, white, and yellow blooms in early 
summer. 

The North American Tree Lupin (Lupinus arboreus) forms a large 
shrubby bush, 3 to 5 feet or more in height and as much in diameter. 
In exposed positions the young shoots are cut during frosty weather, 
but, as a rule, this natural pruning only seems to make the plants 
flower more freely the following summer. In fact, to secure good, 
shapely bushes it is desirable to prune if the long, straggly growths 
escape harm from frosts. Increase is by cuttings inserted in sandy 
soil in a cold frame during late summer, and by seeds sown in a frame 
when ripe or in spring. The typical kind has pale yellow flowers ; 
varieties are Snow Queen, pure white ; Somerset, yellow ; Golden 
Spire, deeper yellow ; Milkmaid, primrose-yellow and white ; and 
Dorothy, blue and white. These beautiful Tree Lupins flower through- 
out the summer, and are fragrant. In exposed gardens, where these 
plants sometimes suffer in winter, they should be planted at the foot 
of a sunny south wall ; in fact, they need a sunny position and well- 
drained soil in all gardens. 

Lychnis (Campion). — In this group, which belongs to the Pink 
family (Caryophyllaceae), there are several useful annuals and numer- 
ous beautiful perennials with richly coloured flowers. They thrive 
in ordinary garden soil which has been well dug and manured. Pro- 
pagation of the perennials is by division of the roots in autumn or 
spring, by seeds (of the single-flowered kinds) sown on a border out- 
of-doors from April to June, and by cuttings made of young growths 
in spring and inserted in light, sandy soil in a frame. Lychnis alpina, 
4 to 6 inches, purple-red, April to June, native of Europe, is a pretty 
little plant for a sunny spot in the rock garden ; Haageana, from 
Japan, is one of the most showy Campions on light, well-drained soil ; 
there are scarlet, white, rose, and pink sorts that flower during July 
and August, the plants are about 12 inches high, and are suitable 
for the rock garden or the front of a sunny border. Lagascae, a Spanish 
kind, is a charming alpine, 4 inches in height, with dainty, rose-coloured, 
white-centred flowers from May to July ; rosea, deep pink, and alba, 
white, are desirable varieties ; pyrenaica, from the Pyrenees, is a low- 
growing, glaucous-leaved plant bearing white flowers, May to July, 
suitable for the rock garden. The European Lychnis Viscaria grows 
about 12 inches high, and bears rosy-red flowers during June and July ; 
better than this for the rockery and front of the border are the varieties 



LYCIUM CHINENSE 271 

alba grandiflora, white, splendens, rich red, and splendens plena, a 
most valuable plant with double, rosy-red flowers. 

The best perennial species for the flower border are : chalcedonica, 
the Jerusalem Cross, a slender-growing kind, 3 to 4 feet high, with 
showy scarlet flowers during July and August — an invaluable plant. 
The Crowned Campion from Southern Europe, coronaria (Agrostemma 
coronaria) will thrive in sun or partial shade, even among hardy ferns 
in the shady border ; it has grey leaves and stems, grows 2 to 3 feet 
high, and bears rosy-crimson flowers in summer ; alba, white ; atro- 
sanguinea, rich crimson-purple ; oculata, white, rose centre ; and 
Walkeri, blood crimson, are distinct varieties. From a packet of 
mixed seeds a number of colours can be raised. Two varieties of our 
native Ragged Robin (Flos-cuculi) are grown in gardens ; alba 
plena, double white ; and rubra plena, double rose ; these are 18 inches 
high, flower freely from June to September, thriving particularly in 
moist soil and the bog garden. Lychnis Flos-jovis, the Rose Campion, 
18 to 24 inches in height, has bright pink flowers in summer. One 
of the most beautiful Campions is Lychnis vespertina alba plena ; 
it is a double white-flowered variety of our native Evening Campion, 
2 to 3 feet high, with fragrant flowers, from June to September. 

The annual Campion, Lychnis Coeli-rosa (syn. Agrostemma Coeli- 
rosa), the Rose of Heaven, is native of the Levant ; it grows 18 inches 
high, and bears rosy-purple flowers during summer. There are 
several varieties of distinct colours which come true from seeds, or 
seeds may be purchased in mixture. Dwarf Carmine, 6 inches high, 
is valuable as an edging ; the seeds are sown outside during April 
on a sunny border, where the plants are to flower. 

Lycium Chinense is the well-known Box Thorn or Tea Tree, 
a strong-growing Chinese shrub with trailing branches, belonging to 
the Potato family (Solanaceae). It is often planted where a quick 
and dense-growing plant is required to mask unsightly objects. Its 
attractions centre in the small purple flowers, each about | inch 
across, and in the bright red fruits which are very showy in autumn. 
Lycium pallidum, from New Mexico and Arizona, is not so well known ; 
it is a loose-growing bush 4 feet high, with glaucous leaves, greenish 
flowers, and orange- coloured fruits. Plant in ordinary garden soil, 
give a sunny position, increase by means of seeds in spring, and thin 
out the shoots of the former kind occasionally. 

Lycopodium (Club Moss). — There are seven native British Club 
Mosses (Natural Order Lycopodiaceae) ; they are more interesting 
than beautiful, and appeal to the botanist rather than to gardeners. 
They revel in a moist, peaty soil in the bog garden, or in low parts 



272 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

of the rockery. The plants are increased by division, spring being 
the best time ; they are flowerless evergreen plants, allied to ferns, 
and produce spores instead of seeds. The species are : clavatum, 
a fairly common plant in the North of England, Scotland, and Wales ; 
annotinum, fairly common in Scotland, and found in one or two 
places in England and on Snowdon ; complanatum, found in Gloucester- 
shire and Worcestershire ; alpinum, common in Scotland and North 
of England ; inundatum, selaginoides, and selago, the Fir Club Moss. 

Lycoris. — Bulbous plants (Natural Order Amaryllidaceae), suit- 
able for planting on a well-drained, sunny border in sandy loam, peat, 
and leaf-mould. Plant the bulbs 3 to 4 inches deep in September 
or October and 6 inches apart. They grow 12 to 24 inches in height. 
The best species are : aurea, golden-yellow, August and September, 
China ; radiata, a Chinese species with pinkish-red flowers in June 
and July ; squamigera, a Japanese plant, with fragrant, rosy blossoms 
in July and August. 

Lyonia ligustrina is a North American bush, from 2 to 3 feet 
high, belonging to the Heather family (Ericaceae). It is of rather 
dense growth, and produces racemes of white flowers freely during 
late spring and early summer. Conditions similar to those required 
by Rhododendron are necessary. Increase is by seeds or cuttings 
in summer, and pruning is limited to the occasional thinning out 
of the older branches. 

Lysimachia {Loosestrife, Creeping Jenny). — Several very useful 
hardy perennials are found in this group, which belongs to the Primula 
family (Primulaceae). The plants thrive in ordinary garden soil, 
including that of a rather wet, boggy nature. Increase is by division 
from October to March, while seeds may be sown in a cold frame, 
or outside from April to June. A sunny or partially shaded spot is 
suitable. Lyismachia clethroides, a Japanese plant, 2 to 3 feet 
high, has spikes of white flowers in July and August and prettily tinted 
foliage in autumn ; Ephemerum, from Southern Europe, grows 3 feet 
high, has grey leaves and erect spikes of white flowers in July and 
August, it is a useful water-side plant ; Henryi is a new Chinese species 
of low growth with large yellow flowers in summer, and is suitable 
for the rock garden ; longifolia, from North America, reaches a height 
of 2 feet, and bears showy yellow blooms in July and August. Lysi- 
machia Nummularia (Creeping Jenny, Moneywort), the best-known 
kind, is a native trailing plant that will grow anywhere, and its 
yellow blooms in summer are familiar ; it spreads very rapidly ; the 
golden-leaved var. aurea is very handsome, and much used as a carpet 
lor summer bedding ; punctata (syn. verticillata), a European kind, 



LYTHRUM 273 

3 feet high, has spikes of yellow flowers in July and August ; it is 
useful for the water-side. 

Lythrum {Purple Loosestrife). — The Loosestrifes (Natural Order 
Lythraceae) are good-natured plants, thriving in sun or partial shade 
and in ordinary soil. While attractive in the mixed flower border, 
they are particularly suited for cultivation by the water-side, the 
north border, and wild garden. Increase is by division of the clumps 
from October to March, by cuttings inserted in pots of sandy soil 
in a frame in April, and by seeds sown in a heated greenhouse during 
February to flower the same year, or outside from April to June to 
blossom the following year. The Common Purple Loosestrife (Sali- 
caria) is a British wild plant, and the plants cultivated in gardens 
are varieties of this. Three good ones are : rosea, rich rose ; superba, 
deep rose ; and Brightness, rose-pink, which grow 3 to 4 feet in height 
and flower freely from July to September. Also flowering during 
the same period is Lythrum virgatum Rose Queen, 3 J feet high, having 
long graceful spikes of bright rose-coloured flowers ; alatum, 2 feet 
high, bears crimson-purple flowers from June to September. 

Madura aurantiaca, the Osage Orange of the Southern United 
States, is a tall deciduous tree armed with ferocious spines. It belongs 
to the Natural Order Urticaceae, and is allied to the Mulberry. 
Neither flowers nor leaves are of special interest, but the round, 
orange-like fruits are ornamental. The leaves are sometimes used 
in America as food for silkworms, whilst the spiny branches, and the 
fact that the plant withstands severe pruning well, make it a good 
hedge plant, and as such it might be used in this country. It grows 
well in ordinary garden soil, and may be pruned during winter. 
Male and female flowers are produced on different trees. 

Macrotomia. — {See Arnebia.) 

Magnolia {Lily Tree). — This group (Natural Order Magnoliaceae) 
is a very important one to gardeners, for it includes a large number 
of ornamental trees and shrubs, many of which are hardy in numerous 
parts of the United Kingdom. Others are only suitable for the milder 
counties or for planting against walls, but the majority which have 
been introduced may be grown in one part or another of the British 
Isles. The head-quarters of the Magnolia is in China, but some 
occur in the Himalaya, Japan, and the United States. The various 
kinds thrive in warm, well-drained loamy soil, but appreciate a 
little peat or leaf-mould, especially in the soil placed immediately 
about the roots at planting time. It is advisable to put the larger- 
growing sorts in permanent positions early in life, for they are rather 
difficult to transplant after they have attained a moderate size. Plant- 

S 



274 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

ing should be conducted either early in autumn (say in September), 
or during April or early May. Propagation is effected by seeds, 
grafts, or by layering branches. Pruning should be directed toward 
shaping the bushes, but the plants need not be pruned very severely. 
Summer is the best time for the work. 

A selection of the best kinds is as follows : Magnolia acuminata is 
a tall tree with large handsome leaves, native of the United States, 
where it is called the Cucumber Tree or Mountain Magnolia ; its 
greenish-white flowers are not very showy. Campbellii, a native of 
the Eastern Himalaya, is one of the showiest of all, but, unfortunately, 
it can only be grown in the mildest districts ; forming a large tree 
in its native country, it grows between 20 and 30 feet high here, 
the flowers often exceed 9 inches across, and are rich red without and 
white flushed deeply with rose within. Delavayi is a new evergreen 
species from Yunnan, bearing very large leaves and cream-coloured 
flowers ; it must be planted against a wall in the southern counties. 

Magnolia conspicua, the Yulan of China and Japan, is one of 
our earliest flowering trees, and it is often at its best during late 
March and early April ; the white, cup-shaped, fragrant flowers cover 
every part of the leafless branches. There are numerous trees 
between 15 and 40 feet high in the neighbourhood of London. It is 
sometimes grown against walls. Crossed with obovata, a bushy, 
purple-flowered Magnolia from China, a number of very beautiful 
hybrids have been produced ; these bloom profusely, the fragrant 
flowers usually being white, more or less deeply stained with purple. 
Good ones are : Alexandra, Norberti, and Soulangeana. Fraseri is a 
deciduous summer-flowering species from the Southern United States ; 
its flowers are 6 to 8 inches across and buff- coloured. Glauca, the 
Swamp Bay or Laurel Magnolia, from North America, may be either 
evergreen or deciduous ; it forms a large bush with white flowers. 

Magnolia grandiflora, the Bull Bay of the Southern United States, 
is often grown as a wall plant in this country, although in the south 
and west it forms a handsome bush or small tree in the open ground. 
Its large evergreen leaves are very attractive, but during summer 
attention is diverted to the handsome white blossoms which are often 
9 inches across ; of the several varieties, that known as gloriosa is 
probably the best. Hypoleuca is a comparatively new Japanese 
species, with large deciduous leaves and white flowers. Lennei is a 
hybrid, it is said, between conspicua and obovata, but from the shape 
and colouring of its flowers the first-named and Campbellii appear to 
be the most likely parents ; it blooms in May, the flowers being 
crimson on the outside with very large shapely petals; 








:'i *^ 




A LILY TREE (MAGNOLIA 
SOULANGEANA) 



THE MONKEY MUSK (MIMULUS 
CARDINALIS) 




/ •.■/<>.■ ;/'. //. IVa/f,' 



HIMALAYAN POPPY (MECONOPSIS 
ACULEATA) 




NARCISSUS JOHNSTONI QUEEN 
OF SPAIN 



MAIANTHEMUM 273 

Magnolia macrophylla is only available for the southern counties, 
but it is a magnificent plant both by reason of its handsome foliage 
and large buff-coloured flowers ; it forms a small tree, and is native 
of the Southern United States. Parvifiora, from Japan, is a deciduous 
bush with white shapely flowers enclosing a mass of crimson stamens ; 
the flowers appear in May and June. Watsoni, from the same country, 
is a somewhat similar shrub, though larger in all its parts. 

MagnoHa stellata is a handsome Japanese bush 4 to 12 feet high, 
with a similar diameter ; its glistening white star-like blooms are 
borne with exceptional freedom in April (var. rosea has rose-tinted 
blooms). Salicifolia, a new Japanese bush or small tree, bears pretty 
white flowers 3 to 4 inches across in May. Tripetala, the Umbrella 
Tree of the United States, is distinguished by large foliage, white 
flowers, and red fruits 

Mahonia. — {See Berberis.) 

Maianthemum (Two-leaved Lily of the Valley). — The only kind 
available for our gardens is Maianthemum Convallaria, a native of 
the north temperate regions ; it is of herbaceous habit, and belongs 
to the Lily family (Liliaceae). The plant is generally hardy in the 
British Isles, and should be planted in shady or semi-shady places in 
soil rich in humus, such as is found in an Oak or Beech wood, and 
it is a good plant for naturalising in wild gardens, its requirements 
being very similar to those of the Lily of the Valley. It spreads by 
means of underground stems, and may be easily propagated by digging 
up and dividing the roots or rhizomes any time between the fall of 
the leaves in autumn and the beginning of growth in spring. In 
height it rarely exceeds 9 inches, and the white flowers appear in 
May. In some parts of the British Isles it is found wild. 

Maidenhair Tree. — (See Ginkgo.) 

Maize. — (See Zea Mays.) 

Malcolmia (Virginian Stock). — The plants found in this group 
of the Wallflower family (Cruciferae) are mostly of annual duration, 
the best known being the common Virginian Stock (Malcolmia mari- 
tima), from the Mediterranean region. There are, however, other 
species, some confined to Greece and others being more widely dis- 
tributed in Southern Europe. They thrive in any good garden soil, 
and are excellent for groups along the front of the herbaceous border, 
or for large masses upon ground which it is wished to clothe quickly. 
Seeds are sown out-of-doors where the plants are to bloom ; those 
sown in March or early April will bloom during June and July, whereas 
those sown late in May or in early June will bloom in August and 
September. It is wise to thin the seedHngs to a distance of 3 inches 



276 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

apart. Malcolmia maritima grows from 6 to 9 inches high and 
bears white, lilac, rose or red flowers. Good varieties are : alba, 
white ; and Crimson King, crimson. Mixed kinds are, however, very 
effective. Other useful sorts are : bicolor, 6 inches, pink and yellow, 
Greece ; Chia, 6 to 12 inches, purple or lilac, Greece ; and littorea, 
6 to 12 inches, purple or reddish-purple. Southern Europe. The 
flowers of the various kinds are fragrant, especially in the evening. 

Mallow. — {See Malva.) 

Malope.^ — ^The IMalopes, which belong to the Mallow family 
(Malvaceae), contain one species of considerable decorative value, 
namely Malope trifida, an annual, native of Spain and North Africa. 
It grows to a height of 2 feet, and branches freely, each shoot bear- 
ing a number of large crimson flowers, upwards of 2 inches across, 
which resemble those of a single Hollyhock. There are several 
varieties, that known as grandiflora being really a glorified form of 
the typical kind, whilst grandiflora alba has white flowers and rosea, 
rosy-pink blossoms. Malopes are among the most beautiful of hardy 
annuals, and are of the easiest possible cultivation providing they 
are given deeply-dug, loamy soil, enriched with manure. It is wise 
to sow the seeds, where the plants are to flower, during the latter part 
of March or early in April. Sow thinly and cover the seeds with 
about one-third of an inch of soil. As soon as the seedlings are large 
enough to handle, thin them to at least 10 inches apart. They mature 
seeds freely which may be kept from year to year if they are stored 
in a drawer in a cool room. 

Malva (Mallow). — Numerous hardy herbaceous plants of annual, 
biennial, or perennial duration are found among Malva (Natural Order 
Malvaceae). Several are natives of the British Isles, two common 
ones being moschata, the Musk Mallow, and sylvestris, the Marsh 
Mallow. Although several of them bear showy flowers in profusion, 
they cannot be considered to be amongst the most attractive her- 
baceous plants, and are certainly of less decorative merit than Malope 
trifida and the Hollyhock. But they have advantages, for they thrive 
in poor soil, and the British kinds are effective amongst wild plants. 
The kinds usually found in gardens are Alcea, a European perennial 
growing 4 feet or more high, with pink or reddish flowers, commonly 
called the Vervain Mallow ; crispa, an annual, native of Europe, 
2 to 4 feet high, flowers white ; moschata (Musk Mallow), perennial, 
2 to 3 feet, rose ; the variety alba has white flowers. They are easily 
grown from seeds, which may be sown as soon as they are ripe, or 
they may be kept in a cool room and sown in March. In either case 
they can be sown in an open border. 



MALVASTRUM 277 

Malvastrum {False Mallow). — Most of the species of this group 
of the Mallow family (Malvaceae) are natives of the New World, 
being found in Western North America, Parana, Uruguay, and Chili, 
though one or two kinds are widely distributed through the warmer 
regions of the world. They are not very hardy, but a few kinds can 
be grown in the herbaceous border and rock garden in the South of 
England. They thrive in warm, loamy soil, and are increased by 
seeds sown under glass in February. Their decorative merits are 
not pronounced. Malvastrum coccineum, 6 inches, scarlet, North- 
West America ; Gilliesii, 6 inches, red, Parana ; lateritium, 6 inches, 
red, Uruguay ; and campanulatum, i to i^ feet, purplish-rose. Chili, 
are amongst the best. All bloom during summer. 

Mammillaria. — Mammillaria belongs to the Cactus family 
(Cactaceae), and consists of a large number of quaint-looking leaf- 
less plants, which are thickly armed with spines. They are found 
largely in the arid regions of Mexico, Arizona, and Texas, and are 
usually dwarf and compact in habit. Some kinds do not grow more 
than I inch or 2 inches high, whilst others may attain a height of 
6, 9, or 12 inches. The stems are usually round and divided into 
numerous regular-sized, cushion-like excrescences from which the 
small tufts of spines, which in some species are short and in others 
of considerable length, are produced. The flowers in most cases are 
very attractive, being red, rose, yellow, or white in colour, whilst 
they are followed by pretty red fruits. They require a sunny green- 
house to bring them to perfection, but fairly good results can be 
obtained by growing them in a sunny window, and the stronger- 
growing kinds can be plunged in beds out-of-doors for the summer 
months. Cultivation is simple, for they thrive in well-drained pots 
in a compost of 2 parts good loam to i part of broken lime rubble, 
and coarse sand with a little leaf-mould. They can be left in the 
same pots for several years. During winter practically no water should 
be given. Of the large number of species available, the following is 
a selection : barbata, a dwarf plant with rose flowers and white 
spines ; bicolor, dwarf, purple, covered with small spines ; dasyacantha, 
3 inches, red ; elongata, 3 to 4 inches, yellow ; formosa, red ; Mis- 
souriensis, dwarf, yellow or red. Southern United States — this is one 
of the hardiest kinds, and can be grown out-of-doors in a few places 
in the British Isles. 

Mandragora {Mandrake). — Herbaceous plants of perennial dura- 
tion, which belong to the Potato family (Solanaceae). They are pecu- 
liar on account of their thick, fleshy rootstocks which frequently bear 
a resemblance to the human form. Probably on this account, together 



278 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

with their medicinal properties, many weird legends are attached 
to the plants. In some countries people would not upon any account 
pull the plants from the ground, for such work could not be done 
without some breakage of roots, which was said to cause the plants 
such pain that they screamed, and bad luck was sure to dog the foot- 
steps of any person who injured them. As the roots were required, 
however, the collectors dug round the plants to loosen them, and 
then tied an animal to each plant, causing it to pull the plant from 
the ground. They are not of any great value for decorative pur- 
poses, but are sometimes planted in semi-shade, where the soil is 
moderately deep. Propagation is by division of the crowns in spring 
or by seeds sown out-of-doors, or in a frame during February or March. 
Mandragora autumnalis grows about i foot high and bears purplish 
flowers in early autumn, and officinarum (the Medicinal Mandrake) 
bears white or blue flowers in May. Both are found in the region 
bordering the Mediterranean. 

Maple. — {See Acer.) 

Marigold. — [See Calendula.) 

Mariposa Lily. — (See Calochortus.) 

Marjoram. — {See Origanum.) 

Marrubium {White Horehound). — Herbaceous perennials, remark- 
able for their somewhat pungent odour and bitter taste. They belong 
to the Sage family (Labiatae), and few of them have any decorative 
value. One species, however, the Common Horehound (Marrubium 
vulgare), a native of Europe (including the British Isles) and North 
Asia, is usually grown amongst collections of medicinal plants and 
herbs, for at one time it possessed a considerable reputation as a 
simple domestic medicine by reason of its tonic properties. Except 
in some country places, however, it appears to have fallen largely 
into disuse. Plant in ordinary garden soil, increase by division in 
February or March, or by cuttings dibbled in sandy soil in a frame, 
when the shoots are 2 or 3 inches long, in April. 

Marsdenia erecta. — This is a climbing shrub (Natural Order 
Asclepiadaceae) from Eastern Europe and Asia Minor, suitable for 
planting in the milder counties. Its slender stems are clothed with 
broadly ovate or heart-shaped leaves, and the small white flowers 
are produced from the upper leaf axils and the points of the current 
year's shoots towards July or August. Plant in ordinary garden soil 
against a wall for preference. Cuttings can be rooted during summer 
if inserted in sandy soil in a close frame. Pruning should take the 
form of cutting the previous year's shoots well back in February 
once the plant has covered the available space. 





J9^Sr>^tJr^*^ 




) 



> 



f I' » 

I < 



\ 



A 







?^ 



MATRICARIA 



279 



Marigold. — {See 



of Peru. — {See 




Marsh 

Caltha.) 
Marvel 

MiRABILIS.) 

Matricaria {Mayweed). — 
Annual and perennial herbs, 
often of a weedy character, are 
found in this genus of the Daisy 
family (Compositae). Some of 
them are rather pretty when 
in flower, "and they thrive in 
poor soil. Matricaria inodora, 
a white-flowered native plant, 
grows on waste ground in most 
parts of the country, and is 
sometimes a troublesome weed 
on cultivated land ; Tchihat- 
cheffii, a dwarf, white-flowered 
species from Turkish Armenia, 
is one of the best kinds for 
the garden, and is sometimes 
planted in the rock garden ; it 
is increased by seeds sown in 
spring or by division in Feb- 
ruary or March. Matricaria 
Chamomilla, a widely distri- 
buted European plant, is known 
as the Wild Chamomile ; its 
flowers have tonic properties 
similar to the true Chamomile 
(Anthemis nobilis), for which 
they are sometimes substituted. 

Matthiola {Stock).— A number of very useful and ornamental 
annual, biennial, and perennial border plants are included in this 
group of the Wallflower family (Cruciferae). They are well known 
under the name of Stock, and various species have produced such 
kinds as Ten-Week, East Lothian, Brompton, Night-scented, etc. 
Matthiola incana (sometimes called annua), a native of Southern 
Europe, etc., is perhaps the most important species, for it is the parent 
of most of the garden Stocks. It may be either of annual or biennial 
duration, whilst occasionally, in the case of the Brompton Stock, 
plants may live for two or three years ; for this reason incana and 



THE TEN-WEEK STOCK (Matthiola) 



280 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

annua were at one time kept separate, the former being credited with 
the production of the Brompton and the latter with the Ten-Week 
kinds. Now, however, all are grouped under incana, a plant which 
is sometimes found wild near the coast in the South of England. The 
typical kind grows i foot to 2 feet high, and bears purplish flowers, 
but the cultivated forms vary greatly not only in growth, but in the 
colour and form of the flowers. 

Seeds of the Ten-Week Stock should be sown under glass in March. 
When large enough to handle prick out the seedlings 2 or 3 inches 
apart in a compost of 3 parts loam, i part leaf-mould, and i part 
well-rotted manure, in boxes, or a bed in a frame. About the middle 
of May plant them permanently in good soil. The chief consideration 
should be to keep them growing without a check from the seedling 
to the flowering stage. Many varieties are offered by seedsmen, 
good ones being : Canary-Yellow, Crimson, Purple, White, Rose ; 
all are double. Packets of mixed colours, however, usually give 
quite good results. A large-growing strain of Ten-Week Stock is 
known as Giant Perfection, and a dwarf strain as Dwarf German. 
Both can be procured in all the colours mentioned above. A class 
of Stocks which may be grown either as Ten-Week or winter-flowering 
for pots under glass is known as New Admiration ; white, rosy- 
lilac, flesh and crimson-coloured kinds can be obtained. 

The Brompton Stock is a biennial, though it sometimes lives to 
bloom a second or even a third time. Seeds should be sown in June 
or July of one year, out-of-doors, to produce flowering plants the 
following year. Double-flowered kinds with purple, scarlet, white, 
or rose-coloured flowers can be procured. 

The Intermediate or East Lothian Stock is a biennial. Seeds are 
sown in summer to obtain plants that will bloom the following year. 
In the warmer parts of the country the plants may be left out all 
winter, but in colder places they should be kept in a frame until 
spring. These kinds are useful for flowering in the greenhouse. 
Varieties with double crimson, scarlet, purple, and white flowers can 
be procured. Crystal White is a very attractive white-flowered 
variety, whilst a good group is known as May Queen ; it can be 
obtained in scarlet, purple, or white. Wallflower-leaved Stocks are 
simply Ten- Week varieties, with leaves resembling those of the 
Wallflower. As a rule it is not advisable for the amateur to save his 
own seed. By sowing seeds of Intermediate Stocks under glass in 
February and growing them without a check, they can often be got 
to flower out-of-doors in August and September. 

Matthiola tristis, the Night-flowering Stock, is a native of Southern 



MECONOPSIS 281 

Europe, forming a sub-shrub with red or purplish flowers. It is not 
very hardy, and should be given a sheltered position. Matthiola 
bicornis, the Night-scented Stock, is a free-flowering annual, about 
12 inches high, with lilac blooms that are very fragrant in the 
evening. Seeds are sown in March or April where the plants are to 
bloom: 

May Tree. — (See Crataegus.) 

Mayflower. — {See Epigaea.) 

Meadow Sweet. — {See Spiraea.) 

Meadow Rue. — (See Thalictrum.) 

Meconopsis {Poppywort). — Biennial and perennial herbaceous 
plants belonging to the Poppy family (Papaveraceae) : they are repre- 
sented in the British Flora by the Welsh Poppy (Meconopsis cam- 
brica), a perennial plant 9 to 12 inches high, which bears yellow 
flowers freely during late spring and early summer. It is useful for 
naturalising on stony ground, for planting on walls, or for the rock 
garden. Seeds are sown in spring from which plants may be pricked 
out in beds in June and be planted permanently in autumn. Mecon- 
opsis aculeata is a very beautiful plant from the temperate Himalaya ; 
it is of biennial duration, and seeds sown in May or June produce 
good plants with considerable tufts of hairy leaves by autumn. In 
spring they grow vigorously if in moist and good soil, and a strong 
inflorescence appears from the centre of each plant, reaching 2 to 3 feet 
high, and bears large blue or purplish flowers. Meconopsis bella is 
a rare species from the Himalaya, growing from 4 to 6 inches high 
and bearing solitary blue flowers in June ; it should be planted in 
the rock garden. 

Meconopsis integrifolia is a remarkable plant from China ; it is a 
biennial, and blossomed for the first time in this country in 1905. 
From seedlings raised in May or June a strong central flower spike 
appears the following May or June, which produces large flowers of 
a pretty, soft yellow colour. Another attractive Chinese species of 
recent introduction is punicea. This is correctly a perennial of dwarf 
habit, which produces large red, solitary, Sarracenia-like flowers on 
slender stalks ij to 2 feet high in May. It is raised from seeds sown 
as soon as ripe, but is rather difficult to keep owing to its dislike of 
a damp atmosphere in winter. 

Meconopsis WalUchii, from the Himalaya, is one of the most beau- 
tiful of all when at its best. Plants raised from seeds sown in June 
flower in the following June ; the inflorescences rise to a height of 
3 or 4 feet and bear large numbers of blue or purplish flowers, each 
one about 3 inches across. Some people prefer to sow seeds of this 



282 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

and other kinds under glass in March to plant out in June, but such 
plants are apt to bloom prematurely. Meconopsis nepalensis, also a 
Himalayan species, is sometimes called the Nepaul Poppy. Its flowers 
are yellow : heterophylla is an annual from California, its flowers are 
copper or crimson-coloured. The biennial sorts should have well- 
drained soil, for they are liable to suffer from damp in winter. It 
is a wise plan to cover large plants with a sheet of glass in order to 
throw off the worst of the rain. All the Meconopsis (except the 
annual kind, heterophylla) like a shady place and peaty, loamy soil. 

Medeola {Indian Cucumber Root). — The only species known of 
this North American genus of the Lily family (Liliaceae) is virginica, 
a hardy herbaceous plant growing about 9 inches high and bearing 
small yellowish-green flowers in June. It increases by means of 
fleshy underground stems which have a Cucumber-like flavour, hence 
the common name. Division of the clumps in February or March 
forms a ready means of increase, and the plant thrives in ordinary 
garden soil. It, however, has little decorative value. 

Medicago arborea {Moon Trefoil).- — A showy shrub from Southern 
Europe belonging to the Pea family (Leguminosae). Growing 3 or 
4 feet high, it bears bluish-green leaves and a profusion of golden 
flowers in summer. It is essentially a sun-loving plant, and should 
be given the sunniest position available, preferably against a south 
or west wall, for it is not very hardy ; or in the extreme south it may 
be given a place in the rock garden. Plant in loamy soil, increase by 
means of seeds, and confine pruning to shaping the bushes or shorten- 
ing shoots which may have been injured by frost. There are numer- 
ous herbaceous species of Medicago, which are valuable as fodder plants, 
especially sativa, which is known under the common name of Lucerne. 
It is a very deep-rooting plant, and keeps green in times of drought 
when most other fodder plants are burnt up. Medicago Echinus, the 
Calvary Clover, is sometimes grown in gardens on account of its 
legendary associations. This is an annual, bearing yellow flowers in 
July, and is raised from seed sown in pots in April, the plants 
usually being grown in a greenhouse ; the leaves are marked with 
dark purplish blotches, and the fruits are curiously curled. 

Medlar. — (See Crataegus.) 

Melianthus {Honey Flower). — Two species, major and minor, are 
grown of this genus of the Sycamore family (Sapindaceac). Both are 
natives of South Africa and are semi-tender plants of loose, bushy 
habit, although major is often grown out-of-doors in summer with 
other bedding plants for the sake of its large, glau.ous green, pinnate 
leaves. When planted against a pillar in a conservatory its long. 




THE YULAN (MAGNOLIA 
CONSPICUA) 



THE FAVOURITE WISTARIA 
SINENSIS 



MELIOSMA 283 

rather gaunt branches grow 10 to 20 feet high, but out-of-doors it 
is often but 3 or 4 feet high. In the milder parts of the country it 
survives the winter out-of-doors, especially when planted in warm, 
well-drained soil at the foot of a wall. In other districts the root- 
stock can be saved by covering it with ashes, though the branches 
may be killed. Cuttings inserted in light soil in a warm and close 
frame in August root quite easily, and may be stored in a cool green- 
house for winter to supply more cuttings in March. By the end of 
May they will be ready for planting out-of-doors. It may also be 
raised from seeds sown under glass in February. Plants which are 
kept on from year to year may be cut back a little in February to 
keep them bushy. The reddish flowers are borne in summer in long 
racemes. Minor, with flowers of reddish-brown, grows about 4 or 5 
feet high, and is much smaller in all its parts. Similar treatment to 
that recommended above suffices. 

IVIeliosma. — Two or three kinds of Meliosma (Natural Order 
Sabicaceae) have been known for many years, but little attention 
was paid to the family before the early years of the present century, 
when several kinds were introduced from China from districts with 
a climate very similar to that of the British Isles. So far as it is 
possible to tell at present, the Chinese plants will fulfil early expecta- 
tions, and be hardy enough for general cultivation except in the 
coldest parts of the country. The Meliosmas have usually conspicu- 
ous oval or oblong leaves and large inflorescences of small cream- 
coloured flowers. They should be planted in good, well-drained 
loamy soil, are usually increased from seeds, and require no regular 
pruning. Where they cannot be grown out-of-doors their cultivation 
had better not be attempted, for they are too coarse growing for an 
ordinary greenhouse. Meliosma myriantha, native of China and Japan, 
one of the older kinds, is suitable for the south and west counties. 

IVIelissa (Balm). — One species, officinalis, of this group of the 
Sage family (Labiatae) is usually included in collections of herbs, 
principally for the sake of its fragrant leaves. Sometimes truly 
herbaceous, it is more often met with as a sub-shrub i foot or 2 feet 
high, or sometimes taller ; the leaves, when bruised, emit a very 
pleasant odour, owing to the liberation of an essential oil, and they 
are considered to possess slight medicinal properties, being one of 
the old-fashioned remedies for colds when steeped in water or made 
into " tea." The white or yellowish flowers are borne during summer, 
but are not very showy. Propagation is by seeds, sown either under 
glass or outdoors in March, or by cuttings placed in a cold frame 
in May ; division of the plants in spring may also be practised. Varie- 



284 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

gata is a variety with variegated leaves ; it is grown from cuttings 
inserted in a cold frame in autumn or by division in spring, and is 
grown as a border and bedding plant. It is easily kept dwarf by 
pruning. 

Melittis {Bastard Balm or Honey Balm). — Melittis Melissophyllum, 
a handsome herbaceous perennial, native of Europe, including the 
British Isles, is the only cultivated species of this group, which be- 
longs to the Sage family (Labiatae). Growing from 12 to 18 inches 
high, it forms a dense plant, and produces showy flowers in May. 
A few blooms only are borne upon each inflorescence, but they are 
about i^ inch long and creamy-white with a purple Hp. It enjoys 
a certain amount of shade, and may be included with good results 
amongst plants for naturalising in thin woods. It is not very fastidious 
regarding soil, as it grows in any kind that is moderately good. In- 
crease is by division during February or March and by seeds sown 
out-of-doors during the latter month. The variety grandiflora has 
rather larger and brighter-coloured flowers than the type. 

Menispermum. — Two climbing plants belonging to this genus 
(Natural Order Menispermaceae) are sometimes found in gardens. 
They are Canadense, the Moonseed, from North America, and dauricum, 
from Siberia, China, and Japan. Both are perfectly hardy and thrive 
in ordinary garden soil, either against walls or trellises or over rough 
posts or bushes in the open garden. The foliage is rather distinct 
by reason of its bright green colour and peculiar shape, but the flowers 
are not showy. The round black fruits are, however, conspicuous, 
for they resemble small bunches of grapes. Increase is by seeds 
or by division of the clumps. Superfluous growth may be cut out 
during February. 

Mentha (Mini). — Several valuable herbs are found in this group 
of the Sage family (Labiatae), and there are few gardens throughout 
the country which do not contain one or more representatives. 
The Spearmint (viridis) is widely grown for flavouring purposes, a 
sprig or two being usually boiled with new Potatoes and Peas, whilst 
it is in great demand for Mint sauce. Groups are easily established 
by taking cuttings of young shoots when they are about 4 inches 
long in spring ; they should be removed below the ground, in order 
to secure a few roots, and be dibbled into ordinary garden soil. Growth 
is rapid by means of underground stems. Division of the roots k 
also a means of increase, but cuttings are usually preferred. Mentha 
Pulegium is the Pennyroyal of gardens, grown for its aromatic pro- 
perties ; it, like the former, is a native of Europe, including Great 
Britain, and can be grown under similar conditions. Mentha piperita 



MENTZELIA 285 

and its variety officinalis are, however, the most important Mints 
from a commercial point of view. They are known by the common 
name of Peppermint, Mentha Requieni (known also as Thymus 
corsicus) is a charming, low-growing, creeping plant for the rock 
garden bearing purplish blossoms in July. 

Mentzelia. — This group of New World herbaceous plants is in- 
cluded in the Natural Order Loasaceae. It comprises several showy 
kinds which are usually of biennial duration, but they are rather 
difficult to grow successfully. The seeds should be sown under glass 
in May or June in light sandy soil, the seedlings being pricked out 
in boxes in a compost of 3 parts light fibrous loam to i part each of 
leaf-mould and sand. When large enough they are potted singly in 
3-inch pots, and as soon as established are plunged in ashes in a sunny 
position until autumn ; they are removed to a cold frame for winter, 
and planted on a warm, sunny border in April. Good kinds are : 
Lindleyi, 8 to 12 inches, yellow, California ; laevicaulis, 2 feet, yellow, 
California ; oligosperma, 2 feet, orange, Louisiana ; ornata, 2 feet, 
white. North America. Some people treat all these kinds as annuals 
by sowing the seeds during early February in a greenhouse and growing 
the plants under glass to plant out in May. 

Menyanthes {Bog Bean). — Menyanthes trifoliata, which belongs 
to the Gentian family (Gentianaceae), is the only kind ; it is a widely 
distributed plant throughout the Northern Hemisphere and is wild 
in the British Isles, in shallow pools and streams, growing in mud a 
few inches below the surface of the water, and is also found in bogs 
and marshes. It is easily recognised by the Broad Bean-like leaves 
produced on strong stems a foot or more high, and by its racemes of 
prettily fringed flowers, which are white, suffused with pink. By lift- 
ing the rhizomes and placing them in baskets of soil it is easy to 
establish plantations by sinking the baskets in ponds or streams. 
Such work must be done in spring. 

Menziesia globularis is a shrubby plant belonging to the Heather 
family (Ericaceae). It is found in the Alleghany Mountains, from 
Pennsylvania to Georgia, where it forms a small bush sometimes 
several feet high. Here it is often less than 2 feet in height. Its 
small bell-shaped flowers are white or pinkish in colour, pendent, and 
appear in summer, but they are amongst the least conspicuous of 
those of the various plants of the Heather family. Conditions which 
suit the Heath will suit this shrub also. Increase is by seeds and no 
pruning is needed. There is a variety called ferruginea or hirsuta. 

Merendera. — Bulbous plants, belonging to the Lily family 
(Lihaceae) ; they are allied to the Colchicum, and some blossom in 



286 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

autumn, others in spring. Well-drained, light loamy soil is suitable, 
and they may be planted in beds, borders, or as clumps in the rock 
garden. They can be transplanted any time after the fall of the 
leaves, and increase is by division of the clumps of bulbs, and by 
seeds sown in boxes in a frame as soon as ripe. Good sorts are : 
Bulbocodium, 4 inches high, flowers large, pinkish-lilac, autumn, 
Spain, etc. (the var. bulbocodiodes produces larger flowers and is 
more vigorous) ; persica, 2 to 3 inches, lilac, autumn, Persia and 
Afghanistan ; sobolifera, 3 inches, lilac, spring, Asia Minor and Persia. 

Mertensia {Smooth Lungwort). — These plants are of herbaceous 
habit, and resemble the ordinary Lungwort or Pulmonaria, but may 
be easily distinguished by their smooth leaves, those of Pulmonaria 
being rough and hairy. Most are natives of North America, but a 
few are found elsewhere, one inhabiting Siberia and another being 
widely distributed through the north temperate and arctic regions. 
They belong to the Borage family (Boraginaceae), and the more vigor- 
ous kinds are suitable for the herbaceous border, the weaker ones 
being more at home upon the rockery. They require moderately light 
and well-drained soil, and are increased by division in February or 
March or by seeds sown in a frame in March. Mertensia alpina, from 
North- West America, is a charming little plant suitable for the rock 
garden ; its flower-stems, terminated by pretty blue flowers, appear 
in May or June ; maritima is found in the maritime regions of the 
British Isles, and is widely distributed through the north temperate 
and arctic regions ; it is quite a dwarf plant, and bears pretty blue 
flowers ; in some places it is called the Oyster Plant. 

Mertensia paniculata, i| feet, blue, July, North America ; pul- 
monarioides (Virginian Cowslip), i| feet, blue. May, North America ; 
and sibirica, i| feet, blue. May, Siberia, are other good kinds. 

Mesembryanthemum (Fig Marigold). — Trailing or bushy plants 
with succulent leaves, and often showy flowers, are found in Mesem- 
bryanthemum (Natural Order Ficoideae). They are natives of South 
Africa and require the sunniest possible position. Few kinds are 
thoroughly hardy even in the South of England, although in the 
milder parts of Cornwall a good many can be grown as ordinary 
rockery plants, and Mr. Dorrien Smith cultivates nearly a hundred 
kinds in his famous garden at Tresco Abbey in the Scilly Islands. 
There they are planted out upon rockwork, and provide a most brilliant 
display during summer. The Common Ice Plant, crystallinum, is 
one of the hardiest kinds : it is of annual duration, seeds being sown 
in warmth in February or March, and the young plants grown in 
pans or boxes to be planted out in May. Growth is very rapid, and 








NEPETA MUSSINI. A FREE- 
FLOWERING PLANT 



A PRETTY ALPINE (NOCCAEA 
ALPINA 





NEMESIA STRUMOSA. A BKAUTIKUL 
ANNUAL 



WHITE TRUMPET DAFFODIL 
(NARCISSUS LADY OF THE SNOWS) 



" MEUM 287 

it may be planted in borders or upon walls or rockwork ; its chief 
attractions are the cool-looking leaves and glandular stems and foliage, 
which give the plants a jewelled appearance. The flowers may be 
red or white, but are not so showy as those of other kinds. Mesem- 
bryanthemum cordifolium variegatum is often grown for carpet 
bedding, its heart-shaped leaves being prettily variegated with gold. 
It is a perennial plant, and cuttings are rooted in August under glass, 
and kept in pots until January, when they are potted singly. Growth 
is rapid, and the points of the shoots are removed on several occasions 
during spring and used for cuttings. The young plants are put out 
with other bedding plants during late May and early June. Mesem- 
bryanthemum tricolor, or pyropeum, as it is sometimes called, is one 
of the Fig Marigolds ; it is an annual plant of bushy habit, growing 
freely from seeds sown under glass in March or out-of-doors in April. 
The flowers are an inch across, and various shades of purple, rose 
and white in colour. Other kinds, such as edule (yellow), albidum 
(white), floribundum (red), roseum (rose), spectabile (red), and vio- 
laceum (purple), may be rooted from cuttings under glass in August, 
and be kept in a sunny greenhouse throughout winter to plant on 
the rockery or in a sunny border in May. 

Meum [Baldmoney or Spignel). — The only kind commonly grown 
is Meum athamanticum (Natural Order Umbelliferae). It is a very 
pretty herbaceous plant, about 12 inches high, and is found wild 
in many parts of Europe, including the British Isles. It is of neat 
growth and available for border or rockery, where its finely-cut leaves 
and white flowers during early summer render it a conspicuous object. 
It is quite hardy, and thrives in ordinary garden soil, and is easily 
increased by division in February and early March. 

Michaelmas Daisy. — {See Aster.) 

Michauxia. — This is a small but attractive group of the Bell- 
flower family (Campanulaceae). Two species may be grown, cam- 
panuloides and Tchihatchefhi, both natives of Asia Minor. At their 
best they rank amongst the most stately and beautiful of herbaceous 
plants, but are rather difficult to manage and the best results cannot 
be looked for with any degree of regularity. Although they may con- 
tinue to live for three or four years, like the Foxglove, they are usually 
grown as biennials, seeds being sown during the summer of one year 
to produce plants that will flower in July of the succeeding year. It 
is wise to sow the seeds in pots or boxes under glass, and to grow 
the young plants in a frame until they are well established. Some 
of them should then be planted out in light, well-drained loam, and 
the remainder kept in a frame to put out in spring. As the plants 



288 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

are a little tender, a well-sheltered but not heavily shaded position is 
desirable. Campanuloides produces large branched inflorescences, 
3 to 4 feet tall, and bears large, bell-shaped , white blossoms, which 
are shaded on the outside with purple. Tchihatcheffii is a rather 
more vigorous plant, which also bears white flowers. In the event 
of dry weather being experienced in May, it is wise to mulch the 
plants with well-rotted manure. 

Michelia.— Trees or shrubs belonging to the Natural Order 
Magnoliaceae, and closely related to the Magnolias, with which they 
are sometimes included. At least three species are in cultivation, 
compressa, an evergreen bush or small tree from Japan ; fuscata, a 
Chinese bush ; and Champaca, a tree from the Malaya. The first 
two are grown out-of-doors in the South of England and Ireland, 
but have nowhere attained any considerable size. Michelia fuscata 
is a very interesting shrub, for in addition to being evergreen, it pro- 
duces flowers freely from the leaf axils during summer. The flowers 
are small for a Magnoliad, reddish within and buff without ; they 
are peculiar by being fragrant at certain times of the day, and whereas 
the scent can rarely be detected before eleven o'clock in the morning, 
it is very pronounced from that time until late afternoon. They 
should be treated as advised for the Magnolias, but need a little more 
peat in the soil. They, with the early flowering Magnolias, can be 
grown in pots or tubs for greenhouse decoration. 

Micromeria. — This is a group of herbs and woody plants be- 
longing to the Sage family (Labiatae). Many have little garden 
value, but a few can be grown for the herbaceous border or rockery. 
They succeed in any good garden soil providing it is moderately well 
drained. The herbaceous kinds can be increased by seeds or by 
division in February or March, seeds being sown in pots in a frame 
or greenhouse, and those of a shrubby character are propagated by 
cuttings in July and August, or by seeds in February or March. They 
require a little thinning and the removal of the points of the shoots 
in February. Micromeria croatica, of herbaceous habit, bearing rose 
and violet flowers in July, is native of Croatia ; graeca is a sub-shrub 
producing pink flowers in June, native of Greece, etc. ; rupestris, 
12 inches high, has flowers in June, and is from Carniola ; and Juliana, 
6 inches, with red blossoms in July, comes from the Mediterranean 
region. 

Mignonette. — {See Reseda.) 

Mi I la. — Bulbous plants belonging to the Lily family (Liliaceae), 
though now usually included in Brodiaea ; the kinds here mentioned 
are classed as Brodiaea by botanists- They are all moderately low- 



MIMULUS 289 

growing plants, being usually less than 12 inches in height. In most 
cases the flowers are showy, and the flowering time depends largely 
upon whether the plants are grown under glass or out-of-doors. They 
are not very hardy, and can only be grown with success out-of-doors 
in the milder parts of the country, and even then it is wise to plant 
them in a border of well-drained, rather light soil at the foot of a wall. 
It is usual to obtain imported bulbs and to plant them in October 
or November about 3 inches below the surface of the ground. Where 
groups have been established, surplus bulbs or offsets may be removed 
to plant elsewhere, hfting being done as soon as the leaves die. The 
chief kinds are : biflora, 12 to 15 inches, white, May, Mexico ; Leicht- 
linii, 4 inches, white, autumn, Chilian Andes ; macrostemon, 12 inches, 
lilac, May, Buenos Ayres ; porrifolia, 12 inches, blue and white, 
summer, Chih ; and uniflora, 6 inches, white, February to April, 
Buenos Ayres. WTien grown under glass they should be placed 
several together in 5- or 6-inch pots, and be given full sun. 

Mimulus {Monkey Flower, Musk). — A number of very attractive 
herbaceous plants and sub-shrubs are found in Mimulus (Natural Order 
Scrophulariaceae). Perhaps the best known is the sweet-scented 
Musk (moschatus), a herbaceous perennial native of North America ; 
it is well known by reason of its viscid, fragrant leaves, its yellow 
flowers, and its habit of spreading rapidly by underground stems. 
If it finds a support the branches may grow 12 or 15 inches high, 
though it is usually much dwarfer. It is popular for growing in 
pots, and is usually one of the flowers grown in cottage windows. 
Good potfuls can be made up by dibbling half a dozen pieces, each 
with a few roots, into 5-inch pots filled with a compost of 3 parts 
loam to I part each of leaf-mould and sand, in March. The var. 
Harrisonii, with flowers an inch across, is also useful for pots, but 
is less hardy than the type. One form of Mimulus moschatus appears 
to have lost much of its fragrance, and when patches are being planted 
care should be taken to secure the fragrant kind. Mimulus luteus, 
also from North America, is another popular Musk ; it is very hardy, 
and suitable for planting in moist soil about the margins of lakes 
or streams. Under favourable conditions it becomes naturalised, 
and is very effective over a considerable period in early summer by 
reason of its profusion of yellow blossoms which are borne on stems 
12 to 18 inches high. It is easily raised from seeds sown in light 
soil as soon as ripe or kept in a cool room and sown in spring ; the 
var. alpinus, also known as cupreus, is very distinct by reason of its 
large flowers, which are heavily spotted with brown. By crossing it 
with the other variety of luteus, which is variously called guttatus 

T 



290 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

and variegatiis, a handsome race of hybrids has been obtained which 
are remarkable for their large, handsome, spotted flowers. As a 
rule, the ground colour is white, cream, or yellow, with large irregular- 
shaped blotches of brown or reddish-brown. These hybrids are known 
under the common name of Monkey Musk, and are very popular for 
summer bedding. Seeds are usually sown under glass during February 
or early March, and the seedlings are pricked out in pans or boxes 
for planting out-of-doors in May. They blossom throughout summer. 
In some gardens they are used for greenhouse decoration, and are 
grown in shallow pans. 

Mimulus cardinalis is a red-flowered perennial from North America, 
growing from 2 to 3 feet high and blooming during early summer. 
It can be grown in the herbaceous border and in pots. Mimulus 
Lewisii grows 9 inches high and bears rose-coloured flowers in August ; 
it is a native of North-West America. A very different plant is found 
in Mimulus glutinosus, for it is of shrubby habit. As it is not very 
hardy it must be grown under glass except in the milder parts of the 
country. It forms a bushy plant 4 to 6 feet high, and bears brownish 
flowers freely throughout a great part of the year. It is a native of 
California, and easily increased by cuttings during spring and summer. 
Plants which have bloomed for some considerable time should be 
cut back and allowed to form new growth from the lower parts of the 
shoots during early spring. 

Mina. — Mina lobata is the only species of this group of the Bind- 
weed family (Convolvulaceae), and it is now included in Ipomoea, 
under the name of Ipomoea versicolor. It is, however, so well known 
in gardens as Mina lobata that the name is retained here. It is a 
climbing plant with showy crimson and j^ellow flowers, a native of 
tropical America, and of annual duration. Seeds may be sown in 
pots under glass in February, the young plants being put out in good 
soil in May, or the seeds can be sown in late March where the plants 
are to bloom. It may be used for covering fences or trellises, or be 
given a circle of Birch branches over which to climb. Vigorous plants 
bloom from June onwards for two or three months. 

Mirabilis {Marvel of Peru). — Showy herbaceous perennials be- 
longing to the Natural Order Nyctaginaceae. Mirabilis Jalapa, a 
tropical American species, is the best known. In two years it forms 
a plant i^ to 2 feet high, and nearly 3 feet across, producing its flowers 
for a considerable period from the end of May onwards. Red, white, 
yellow, and lilac flowers are borne by different plants, whilst red and 
white or striped blossoms may be found on the same plant. In warm, 
well-drained soil in the warmer parts of the country it withstands 



MISCANTHUS 291 

the cold of winter without injury, but in other places it is wise to 
lift the roots and place them in a frame covered by ashes or leaves 
for the winter. It can, however, be grown as an annual, for, from 
seeds sown in warmth in February, young plants can be obtained to 
plant out in May, and they will flower finely all summer. Seeds are 
produced freely and a few should be collected each year. Other good 
kinds are : longiflora, 2 to 3 feet, white, pink, or violet, summer, 
Mexico ; and multiflora, i| feet, crimson-purple, July and August, 
California. When a position in full sun, in a border at the foot of 
a wall can be provided, these plants are especially attractive. 

Miscanthus. — Vigorous and decorative herbaceous plants are 
found in these members of the Grass family (Gramineae). They are 
desirable for isolated clumps in conspicuous positions, but are specially 
suitable for moist places such as the bank of a lake or stream, and 
are pecuHarly adapted for associating with Bamboos. Rich soil 
must be provided, and when preparing for planting it is a good plan 
to add cow manure when the ground is light or horse manure when 
it is heavy. Established plants also benefit by a surface dressing of 
decayed manure each spring, and they appreciate an occasional applica- 
tion of liquid manure. Plants which are not growing near water must 
be kept moist at the root during dry weather. Propagation is by 
division of the clumps in March or early April. The best kinds are : 
japonicus, 3 to 6 feet, native of Japan ; its var. variegata has silver 
variegated leaves, whilst zebrina has leaves mottled with gold ; sac- 
charifer, also from Japan, grows 12 feet high, with glaucous leaves ; 
while the Chinese and Japanese kind, Sinensis, is a very graceful, 
green-leaved plant between 3 and 4 feet high. All should be cut down 
before new shoots commence to grow in spring. 

Mistletoe. — (See ViscuM.) 

Mitchella {Partridge Berry). — Mitchella repens (Natural Order 
Rubiaceae) is a creeping plant from North America, and is suitable 
for a position in the rock garden, its attractions being the pretty, 
white, purple-flushed, fragrant blossoms which appear in summer, 
the bright red berries in autumn and the evergreen leaves in winter. 
Rather light peaty soil and a semi-shaded position should be pro- 
vided. Propagation is by division in February or March and by 
seeds sown about the same time in light soil in a frame or greenhouse. 
It can be associated with the dwarf Gaultheria with satisfactory results. 

Mock Orange. — {See Philadelphus.) 

Moltkia petraea. — This very pretty little shrub belongs to the 
Borage family (Boraginaceae), and possesses pretty rich bluish 
flowers. It is a native of Dalmatia, and forms a stiff bush 12 inches 



292 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

to 2 feet high, which, when out of bloom, is rather suggestive of 
Lavender. The flowers, which open in June, however, at once show 
that it is quite distinct. It gives the best results in a sunny position 
in the rock garden, preferably in a crevice between stones or rocks. 
Loamy soil suits it, and increase is by seeds or cuttings. Except 
for the removal of the old flower-heads, pruning is unnecessary. 

Monarda {Horsemint, or Horsebalm). — Several showy and per- 
fectly hardy herbaceous plants are included in this group of the Sage 
family (Labiatae). They are natives of North America, and are 
characterised by fragrant leaves. All are amongst the easiest of 
plants to cultivate, for if planted in any good garden soil they spread 
rapidly and bloom profusely over a considerable period from early 
June onwards. Propagation is by division of the clumps any time 
during late autumn, winter, or early spring. It is unwise to leave 
plants more than two or three years in one position. When dividing 
the plants the outer parts should be chosen for replanting, for they 
are usually more vigorous than the centre. Monarda citriodora. 
Lemon-scented Balm, from North- West America, grows 2 feet high 
and bears pink flowers ; didyma, the Oswego Tea, is the best known 
kind ; it is i| to 2 feet high, and bears bright red blooms (the variety 
called Cambridge Scarlet is finer) ; fistulosa. Wild Bergamot, grows 

2 to 4 feet high, and its flowers may be red or rose, its var. moHis 
is recognised by its hairy leaves. All bloom in summer. 

Monkshood. — {See Aconitum.) 

Montanoa. — Tender or half-hardy shrubs, members of the Daisy 
family (Compositae). They are only available for planting out-of- 
doors in the mildest parts of the country, but in many other gardens 
they can be grown out-of-doors during summer. Cuttings of young 
shoots root quite well if inserted in sandy soil in a closed frame in 
April or July. Plants in pots should be given a compost of 3 parts 
loam, I part leaf-mould, and i part sand. Those grown out-of-doors 
require well-drained, rather light loam. Montanoa bipinnatifida grows 

3 to 4 feet or sometimes more in height, and bears yellowish flowers 
during summer, it is a native of Mexico ; tomentosa, 3 feet high, 
bears white flowers in September, it is also from Mexico. Both may 
be cut back well in February. 

Montbretia. — Bulbous plants belonging to the Iris family 
(Iridaceae). Though the name Montbretia is still kept up in gardens, 
these plants are now called correctly Tritonia. They are generally very 
showy, and blossom during July and August ; they give excellent 
results when planted, about 3 inches deep, in a well-drained border 
of light loamy soil which is moderately rich. The bulbs may be planted 



MORAEA 293 

in autumn or not until February or early March ; most kinds can be 
allowed to remain undisturbed for several years. Offsets are pro- 
duced freely and they are usually used for increase of stock, although 
seeds sown as soon as ripe in a bed of sandy soil in a sunny frame 
produce flowering plants in the course of two years. Like other plants 
of South African origin, they require all the sun available, and it is 
little use planting them in shady places if they are to thrive really 
well. Montbretia aurea, 2 feet, yellow, and Pottsii, orange shaded 
red, are two of the best known kinds. Between them a hardy and 
vigorous hybrid has been raised, called crocosmiaeflora, 2 to 2| feet 
high, with orange-scarlet flowers, but there are also many more sorts, 
remarkable for their large and brightly-coloured flowers. Good ones 
are : America, orange-red ; Anneau d'Or, orange-yellow, purple base ; 
California, yellow and purple ; Congo, dark orange-red ; George 
Davison, golden-yellow ; Le Pactole, apricot ; Prometheus, orange 
and crimson ; Westwick, orange, maroon ring. 

Moon Daisy.— (5^6 Chrysanthemum.) 

Moraea. — The Moraeas are Iris-hke plants (Natural Order 
Iridaceae), natives of South Africa. They are not very hardy, but 
a few kinds thrive when exposed to full sun in a border of well- 
drained, hght loamy soil, at the foot of a wall for preference. They 
are increased by division of the clumps in spring. The hardiest kinds 
are iridioides, 6 to 12 inches, white, with brown or yellowish spots, 
summer ; and Spathacea, 12 inches, yellow, spring. A very fine green- 
house kind is found in Robinsoniana ; it grows 5 feet high, and has 
long and wide, strap-shaped, evergreen leaves and large inflorescences 
of white flowers. It is sometimes called the Wedding Flower. 

Morina. — This group of the Natural Order Dipsaceae is allied to 
the Teasel family and consists of a number of perennial herbaceous 
plants chiefly from the Himalaya. They are of vigorous growth and 
have usually large and ornamental leaves, and rather curious but 
attractive Thistle-like flowers. Their proper place is towards the 
middle or back of the herbaceous border, and they should be planted 
in fair-sized groups. During severe weather in winter it is well to 
cover the crowns with dry leaves and Spruce or other evergreen 
branches. They like good deep soil which is moist, but well-drained, 
and are increased by seeds sown in light sandy soil in a close frame 
as soon as ripe. It is wise to keep the young plants in a frame until 
they are at least six months old. Good kinds are : Coulteriana, 
3 feet, yellowish, summer ; longifolia, 3 feet, purple or reddish-purple, 
summer ; persica, 3 feet, red and white. All are found in the Himalaya, 
but the last-named extends to Persia as well. 



294 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Morisia. — H3^pogaea is the only kind eivailablc for cultivation ; 
it belongs to the Wallflower family (Crucifcrae). This dainty little 
herbaceous plant is suitable for the rock garden, and grows scarcely 
3 inches high, but forms a distinct rosette of pretty little pinnate 
leaves, from amongst which yellow flowers, about ^-inch across, 
appear on stout upright stalks during late spring and early summer. 
Although introduced from its home in vSardinia and Corsica as long 
ago as 1833, it is not very common ; it requires light soil, and should 
be given a position where it will be sheltered from excessive damp 
during winter. Increase is by seeds sown as soon as ripe and by de- 
taching side growths and inserting them as cuttings in pots of sandy 
soil in a closed frame in spring. It is especially attractive when grown 
in shallow pans to bloom in a cold greenhouse in spring. A few small 
pieces of sandstone should be placed between the plants when they 
are grown in this way. 

Morning Glory. — {See Ipomoea.) 

IVIorus {Mulberry). — Trees of considerable importance in their 
native countries and in other places where they have been introduced ; 
they belong to the Natural Order Urticaceae. There are three dis- 
tinct kinds : alba, from temperate and sub-tropical Asia, which is a 
very variable plant, and of which the Chinese have distributed numer- 
ous varieties ; nigra, the common Mulberry of our gardens, which 
has been in cultivation from time immemorial, and of which the native 
country is unknown ; and rubra, the Red Mulberry, of North America. 
The last-named is not sufticiently hardy for general cultivation, even 
in the South of England ; but the other two are both grown. Morus 
alba is cultivated in practically all silk-producing countries, for its 
leaves form one of the most suitable foods for silkworms. The American 
Mulberry is used for the same purpose, but is not considered to be 
so good as the white kind. Morus nigra, as is well known, is grown 
both as an ornamental and fruiting tree, and many fine examples are 
to be found throughout the Midlands and South of England. There 
is one objection to it as a lawn tree, for its fruits fall in quantities 
when ripe and are apt to stain children's and ladies' clotliing. It 
is very tenacious of life, and fine trees may often be found cooped 
between high walls in smoky towns. In fact, such a one exists 
and fruits annually almost within a stone's throw of the Guild- 
hall in London. The Mulberries like well-drained loamj^ soil, are 
easily increased by cuttings in autumn, and only require sufficient 
pruning to keep the trees in shape. That can be done during 
summer. 

Mountain Ash. — {See Pyrus.) 



MUEHLENBECKIA 295 

Muehlenbeckia.— This group (Natural Order Polygonaceae) is 
made up of a number of shrubs of erect or climbing habit, except 
Muehlenbeckia axillaris, which is of dwarf, prostrate growth. They 
are natives of New Zealand, Austraha, the Solomon Islands, and 
South America. Some are hardy in the South of England, and those 
are the only ones that demand attention. The dwarf kind, axillaris, 
may be planted on the rockery ; adpressa, complexa, and varians are 
climbers with an abundance of slender growths clothed with tiny 
dark leaves, the flowers are small and yellowish. They must only be 
planted where they can have plenty of room and should be placed 
at the foot of a large bush over which they may ramble at will. In- 
crease is by cuttings. Plant in ordinary garden soil and prune in 
spring to keep within bounds. 

Mullein. — {See Verb.\scum.) 

Musa {Banana). — The Banana belongs to the Ginger family 
(Scitamineae), and two kinds are sometimes grown for the outdoor 
garden in this country. They are Basjoo, a native of Japan, and 
Ensete, from Abyssinia. Musa Basjoo grows lo or 12 feet high, 
and is hardy in a few of the most favoured parts of Cornwall ; it has 
been grown for many years in gardens in Falmouth and also in the 
Scilly Islands. Elsewhere it must be kept in a cool greenhouse for 
the greater part of the year, but can be placed out-of-doors in summer. 
At its best it is seen with a stout stem surmounted by leaves 3 to 
4 feet long and 7 to 9 inches wide ; the flowers are not very ornamental, 
and the stems die after the death of the flowers or after perfecting 
seeds. Constant renewal of stems is, however, going on from the 
rootstock, and stems in all stages of development may be found on 
a clump. It is not a very satisfactory plant, as the leaves are easily 
injured by wind. It requires rich soil, and is increased by division 
of the clumps in spring. Musa Ensete is also grown now and then in 
Cornish gardens, but, as a rule, it is planted in large pots or tubs 
and used for sub-tropical bedding in summer, spending the rest of 
the year under glass. When planted out in rich soil in a greenhouse 
it forms a magnificent specimen, with a stout trunk 10 or 12 feet 
high and 12 or 15 inches through, surmounted by an immense head 
of leaves, each one of which may be 12 feet in length and 2 feet wide. 
The leaves of pot-grown plants are smaller, but very ornamental. 
Unfortunately, they are easily injured by wind, and when placed 
out-of-doors often look very ragged before the end of summer. This 
species does not produce suckers, but dies after seeding. Propagation 
is thus entirely by seeds which are imported. They should be sown 
in loamy soil in warmth as soon as received. 



296 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Muscari (Grape Hyacinth). — A considerable number of very pretty 
and easily grown bulbous plants are found in Muscari (Natural Order 
Liliaceae). They are widely distributed through Southern Europe 
and Asia Minor and accommodate themselves very well to conditions 
in the British Isles, growing and flowering well, even where the soil 
is poor. The flowers are usually some shade of blue, though a few 
bear purple, yellow, or white flowers. All are dwarf, the tallest 
being about 9 or 12 inches high ; others, however, rarely grow more 
than 6 inches, whilst some are but 3 inches high. The weaker kinds 
should be planted in a border where they can be readily looked after, 
but some are excellent for carpeting beds of shrubs. One of the 
best for this purpose is conicum, native of Europe, and often called 
Heavenly Blue ; it grows 6 inches high and bears its spikes of rich 
blue flowers freely in April. Very effective displays can be made by 
carpeting beds of white-flowered shrubs, such as Magnolia stellata or 
Amelanchier Canadensis oblongifolia, which bloom at the same time, 
with this plant. It increases with great rapidity both by forming 
new bulbs from the old ones and from self-sown seeds. Other good 
ones are : botryoides, 6 inches, blue, April, Italy, with its vars. album, 
white and pallida, pale blue ; comosum, 6 inches, blue, April, Southern 
Europe (the var. monstrosum, 9 inches, has curious but ornamental, 
malformed, pale blue inflorescences of large size). Muscari commuta- 
tum, 6 inches, bears blue flowers in April and is native of Italy ; 
grandifolium, 9 to 12 inches, is dark blue, its habitat is unknown ; 
micranthum, 6 inches, bears violet flowers in April, its habitat, too, 
is unknown ; moschatum grows 9 inches high and has blue flowers in 
April, it is native of Asia Minor (the var. flavum is yellow) ; racemosum 
(Starch Hyacinth), 3 to 4 inches, has blue flowers in April and is 
native of Europe. All should be planted as early in autumn as possible, 
for they soon begin to form new roots. 

Musk. — {See Mimulus.) 

Myoeotidium nobile {Chatham Island Forget-me-not). — This, 
which belongs to the Borage family (Boraginaceae), is a fine herba- 
ceous plant from the Chatham Islands. It is one of the most beau- 
tiful of all hardy plants when seen at its best, for it forms large, glossy, 
evergreen leaves 12 to 18 inches high, from amongst which, during 
late spring and early summer, stout inflorescences appear which bear 
large and beautiful blue Forget-me-not-like flowers well above the 
leaves. Unfortunately it is difficult to grow and only gives really 
good results in a few localities. It appears to thrive most satisfactorily 
in the mild and moist climate of the south-west counties within a 
comparatively short distance of the coast. There, in borders, often 



MYOSOTIS 



297 



at the foot of a wall, it is found in rude health and flowering magni- 
ficently, giving the happy owners the idea that it can be grown as 
easily as a Cabbage, whereas a few miles away it may fail entirely. 
Propagation is by seeds sown as soon as possible after they are ripe, 
and by division of the clumps in spring. It has been noted in first- 
rate condition in Cornwall, planted in loamy soil. It has been tried 
in cold frames in some places, with little success, however. 

Myosotis {Forget-me-not). — Annuals, biennials, and perennials 
are included in this familiar group of the Borage family (Boraginaceae). 
Some are distinctly alpine plants, and 
others are found in woods, grassland, 
and marshes at low elevations, several 
being natives of the British Isles. All 
are easily raised from seeds sown as 
soon as ripe, or they may be kept until 
the following May. Seeds of the com- 
moner kinds can be sown out-of-doors, 
but those of rare sorts should be sown 
in pots of sandy soil in frames. Com- 
mon Forget-me-nots are excellent for 
undergrowth for thin shrubberies, beds, 
or borders, and should always be in- 
cluded amongst spring bedding plants, 
but rare kinds give the most satisfactory 
results when planted in the rock garden. 
In most cases the flowers are a delicate 
shade of blue, but there are varieties 
with white and rose Hewers. Myosotis 
alpestris is a very beautiful kind from 

the Swiss Alps ; it forms dense rosettes of growth and produces 
inflorescences 3 to 6 inches high of charming blue flowers in 
spring. It suffers a little from damp in winter, and should be 
planted on the rockery in gritty soil amongst small bits of sand- 
stone ; the var. albus has white flowers, whilst Victoria is a garden 
kind with pretty blue flowers. Myosotis azorica is a very beau- 
tiful but rather tender perennial from the Azores ; it grows 6 to 
9 inches high, and bears rich blue flowers. Plant in a well-drained 
position in the rock garden. Myosotis dissitiflora is the Common 
Early- flowering Forget-me-not, an excellent plant for naturalising, 
and its varieties for spring bedding. Seeds are sown in May or June 
to produce flowering plants for the following summer. Good garden 
varieties are : Blue King, deep blue ; White Queen, white ; Princess 




THE GRAPE HYACINTH 

(Muscari) 



298 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Rose, rose ; Blue Pyramid, blue ; Star of Love, ?)luc. Myosotis 
palustris is the Water Forget-me-not, a pretty blue-flowered plant ; 
repens is a dwarf, blue-flowered kind, native of Britain ; and sylvatica 
is the Common Wood Forget-me-not of the British Isles. 

Myrica. — A group of hardy shrubs, mostly from North America, 
but one kind, Myrica Gale, the Boy Myrtle or Sweet Gale, is found 
throughout the Northern Hemisphere, and is a familiar object in 
boggy land in the British Isles. Myrica cerifera, the Wax Myrtle 
of the United States, is so called by reason of its fragrant leaves and 
a waxy exudation from the fruits. Myrica californica is the Cali- 
fornian Wax Myrtle. Perhaps the most attractive plant is the 
North American Myrica asplenifolia, which has elegant pinnate leaves ; 
it is, however, difficult to grow if not given moist peaty soil. Other 
kinds do better in the ordinary garden, but are best adapted for 
boggy land. Increase is by seeds and no regular pruning is needed. 
Anyone who has to deal with wet peaty land at a considerable eleva- 
tion would do well to remember the hardier kinds of Myrica. These 
plants belong to the Natural Order Myricaceae. Several tender 
species are natives of Africa and Asia. 

Myricaria germanica, belonging to the Tamarisk family (Tama- 
ricaceae), is a native of Europe and other countries, and is closely 
allied to the Tamarisk. It has sometimes been called Tamarix 
germanica, but is a distinct shrub. Growing at least 4 or 5 feet high, 
it is noticeable by reason of its graceful growth and tiny leaves, and 
by its terminal panicles of pinkish or sometimes almost white flowers 
in June. Like the Tamarisks, it may be planted in exposed places 
near the sea, but also thrives inland. Plant in ordinary garden soil, 
increase by cuttings of ripened shoots inserted out-of-doors in October, 
and cut back the previous year's shoots in February. 

Myrrhis (Sweet Cicely). — Myrrhis odorata, a native of the British 
Isles, is the only member of this group (Natural Order Umbelliferae) 
available for our gardens. It was at one time grown as a pot-herb 
and for salads, but is rarely now used for that purpose. It is, how- 
ever, sometimes grown for its aromatic foliage ; it grows 2 to 2^ feet 
high and produces white flowers in May. Any kind of soil suits and 
increase is by seeds or division during early spring. 

Myrsine. — Several shrubs from South Africa, Australia, Mexico, 
India, and New Zealand are comprised in Myrsine (Natural Order 
Myrsinaceae), but they are not of sufficient interest to warrant their 
being grown under glass, although one kind, africana, is a useful ever- 
green for out-of-doors in the South of England. It is a low-growing 
bush of rather attractive appearance, with small dark green foliage 



MYRTUS 299 

and tiny brownish flowers in spring. A position in the rock garden 
suits it, whilst propagation is by cuttings of half- ripe shoots in 
summer. Pruning is unnecessary. 

IVIyrtus (Myrtle). —This is an important and popular group of shrubs 
(Natural Order Myrtaceae), for it includes the Common Myrtle. The 
various kinds are distributed through New Zealand, Australia, Brazil, 
Peru, Chili, Southern Europe, etc., those from the cooler countries 
being of the greatest use in the British Isles. Though not generally 
hardy, several kinds give excellent results in the south and west 
counties, whilst further north they may be grown against walls, or 
in tubs to stand out-of-doors in summer, being kept in a cold green- 
house or outhouse in winter. In many instances the white flowers 
are exceedingly beautiful, whilst they find a capital setting amongst 
the evergreen leaves. They thrive in loamy soil to which a little 
peat or leaf-mould has been added, and are increased by means of 
cuttings of half-ripe shoots inserted in sandy soil in a closed and 
warm frame during summer. Pruning is sometimes required to shape 
the bushes and to rejuvenate those which are becoming thin and 
leggy ; this should be done in April. Myrtus communis, the Common 
Myrtle of Southern Europe, is a fragrant-leaved evergreen with white 
flowers and black fruits ; it grows quite well against a wall about 
London. The var. tarentina has neat growth and small leaves ; it 
is popular for mixing with flowers at weddings. Myrtus Luma is a 
handsome evergreen from Chili, and is one of the chief attractions of 
Devon and Cornish gardens in September when covered with its 
white flowers. Myrtus Ugni is also from Chili ; it grows well in the 
gardens of the south-west. Other useful sorts are : bullata, myrsi- 
noides, and obcordata. 

Nandina domestica. — This is an interesting shrub, from China 
and Japan, belonging to the Barberry family (Berberidaceae). Though 
rather tender, it may be grown with success out-of-doors in the south 
and west counties of England and in Ireland. The most satisfactory 
position for it is a sheltered corner at the foot of a south or west wall, 
where the stems can become thoroughly ripened. Its attractions are 
the large pinnate leaves which are produced in clusters about the 
points of the branches, and its large panicles of white or pink flowers 
in July. Many forms are recognised by the Chinese and Japanese, 
with whom it is very popular. Here it has never been planted 
extensively. Plant in ordinary garden soil, and increase by seeds or 
division of the clumps. Prune away old shoots when necessary. 

Narcissus (Daffodil). — The Narcissi, which belong to the Natural 
Order Amaryllidaceae, and are native of various European countries, 



300 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

form an extensive group of popular flowers. Apart from their great 
value for the embellishment of the outdoor garden, they are also 
largely grown in pots or bowls for flowering under glass. Exhibitions 
of Narcissi are now commonly held during spring, and large sums are 
often obtained for bulbs of the choicer varieties. It does not, how- 
ever, follow that these are the best for garden display, for many of 
the cheapest kinds are unsurpassed for this purpose. 

The soil best suited to Narcissi in general is sandy loam that has 
been enriched with some manure a year or so previously. Fresh 
manure ought never to be used when planting. The best substitute 
is bonemeal, a little of which should be scattered in the soil beneath 
the bulbs, or if a bed or border is being planted, the bonemeal may 
be scattered on the surface at the rate of 6 ounces to the square yard, 
and dug in. Most amateurs plant the bulbs of Narcissus too near 
the surface ; there should be 3 inches of soil over the largest ones 
and 2 inches or so over those of medium size, while the smallest ought 
to be covered by at least i inch of soil. If possible, the bulbs should 
be planted not later than September, though those who grow to 
produce the finest blooms for exhibition plant in July and August. 
In the outdoor garden Narcissi are planted in various ways. Frequently 
they are put in beds that have contained tender plants during the 
summer months, either alone or grouped with other spring flowers. 
In masses or clumps in the front of shrubberies they are seen to 
advantage, and there may remain undisturbed and thus become 
established ; whereas in beds they must be cleared away to make 
room for the tender plants in summer. In the latter case the bulbs 
must be carefully lifted in May, disturbing the roots as little as possible, 
and laid in some out-of-the-way spot until the leaves have turned 
yellow ; they are then taken up, cleaned, and stored ready for plant- 
ing in late summer or early autumn. 

Another purpose for which many kinds of Narcissus are adapted' 
is for planting in grass that is not often cut, and where they may 
come up year after year. The grass must not be cut until the leaves 
have died away, or the bulbs will deteriorate quickly. In planting bulbs 
in turf, one needs to be careful to arrange them as naturally as possible; 
straight lines must be avoided. A good plan is to scatter the bulbs 
broadcast, and plant them exactly where they lie, subsequently 
adding a few small irregular groups here and there on the margin. 

Narcissi are, according to the classification of the Royal Horti- 
cultural Society, grouped in eleven divisions, and the length of the 
cup or trumpet portion of the flower is the chief factor in their 
classification. 




A NEW ZEALAND DAISY BUSH (OLEARIA STELLULATA, 



NARCISSUS 301 

First, there are the Trumpet Daffodils, in which the central 
trumpet is as long as, or longer than, the perianth or spreading por- 
tion of the flower. This section is subdivided into White, Yellow, 
and Bicolor Trumpet Daffodils, according to their colour. 

The following are some of the best : Yellow — Admiral Togo, 
Emperor, Glory of Leyden, Golden Spur, Henry Irving, King Alfred, 
Lord Roberts, Maximus, Minimus (a tiny Daffodil), Obvallaris, P. R. 
Barr, Van Waveren's Giant. White — Albicans, Cernuus, Madame de 
Graaff, Lady of the Snows, Mrs. Thompson, Pallidus Praecox, 
Peter Barr, W. P. Milner. Bicolor — Apricot, Duke of Bedford, 
Empress, Glory of Noordwijk, Grandis, Horsfieldii, J. B. M. Camm, 
Mrs. Walter Ware, Princeps, Victoria, Weardale Perfection, William 
Goldring. 

In the incomparabilis or chalice-cupped Narcissi, the cup is not 
less than one-third of the length of the perianth segments, but never 
equal in length. 

A few of the best varieties are : Autocrat, Beauty, Blackwell, 
C. J. Backhouse, Frank Miles, Gloria Mundi, Lucifer, Orangeman, 
Red Star, Sir Watkin, Stella Superba, White Wings. 

In the section known as Barri (which includes varieties formerly 
classed as Burbidgei), the central cup is of a length less than one- 
third of the rest of the flower. Some of the best are : Agnes Barr, 
Albatross, Beacon, Conspicuus, Crown Prince, Dorothy E. Wemyss, 
Falstaff, Flora Wilson, John Bain, Seagull. 

The Leedsi section comprises those varieties of chalice-cupped 
(incomparabilis) and star Narcissi (Barri), which have white or creamy- 
white perianth, and a white, cream, or otherwise pale cup. Among 
the best are the following : Ariadne, Bianca, Duchess of Westminster, 
Elaine, Katherine Spurell, Mary Magdalene de Graaff, Minnie Hume, 
Mrs. Langtry, Peach, Salmonetta, Waterwitch, WTiite Lady. 

Those kinds known as Triandrus hybrids have been derived from 
Narcissus triandrus ; they are distinguished by reflexed or spread- 
ing perianth and long, narrow cup, and usually have more than one 
bloom on a stem. Triandrus albus is the lovely Angel's Tears Daffodil, 
suitable for gritty soil in the rock garden or for growing in flower 
pots ; triandrus calathinus has much larger blooms. Queen of Spain 
is a charming Narcissus of clear yellow colour, suitable either for 
the rock garden or pots. A few of the kinds raised during recent 
years are : Agnes Harvey, white ; Cingalee, cream, with more deeply 
coloured trumpet ; J . T. Bennett Poe, cream, with primrose trumpet ; 
and Little Queen, which is remarkable for the fact that the trumpet 
is white and the perianth pale yellow. 



302 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

The Cyclamineus or cylamen-flowered Narcissi have reflexing 
perianth and long, narrow tube, and have been derived from Nar- 
cissus cyclamineus, a charming little flower of rich yellow colour- 
ing, the earliest of all the Daffodils to open. It likes a soil of loam 
and peat and a somewhat shady spot in the rock garden, while it 
is delightful for growing in flower-pots for the cold greenhouse. 

The Jonquil, and those Narcissi that have been raised from it, 
give the name to another section known as Jonquilla. The single 
yellow Jonquil is a favourite kind, for it is easy to grow, and has 
fragrant yellow blossoms late in the season or in early May. The 
Campanelle Jonquil, with very narrow leaves and fragrant yellow 
blooms, and odorus rugulosus, with sweet-scented flowers of similar 
colour, are others of this class. A particularly fine new sort is called 
Buttercup ; the bloom is of greatly improved form, and has some 
of the Jonquil scent. 

The Tazetta (Polyanthus or Bunch-flowered) Narcissi are great 
favourites both for out-of-door cultivation and for growing in pots 
and bowls. A few of the best are : Grand Monarque, white, pale 
yellow cup ; Grand Soleil d'Or, yellow, orange cup ; and Mont Cenis, 
white, with yellow cup. The favourite variety for forcing, the Paper 
White Narcissus, belongs to this group. The Poetaz Narcissi, raised 
by cross fertilisation between the Poet's and the Bunch-flowered 
kinds, are in this class and comprise some splendid kinds, such, for 
instance, as Aspasia, white, with yellow cup ; Elvira, white, with 
orange-yellow cup ; Jaune a Merveille, pale yellow, with deep yellow 
cup ; and Triumph, white, with yellow cup. The flowers are in 
bunches on tall, stout stems. 

The Poet's Narcissi (Poeticus) form another group ; they have 
usually a white perianth and a small, flat crown, in the newer varieties 
often of vivid colouring. Among the large number now existing some 
of the best are the following : Almira, Cassandra, Epic, Homer, 
Horace, Lycidas, and Virgil. The old Poet's Narcissus and its var. 
poetarum, which has an orange-red crown, are still invaluable ; they 
are among the last of the Narcissi to bloom. 

• The next group consists of Double Daffodils, and contains, among 
others, the Old Double Yellow kind (Tclamonius plenus), Butter 
and Eggs, Codlins and Cream, and Orange Phoenix. 

The last group comprises various species of Narcissus, many of 
which are very charming. The Hoop Petticoat Daffodil (Narcissus 
Bulbocodium and varieties), which are delightful for pots, or may 
be grown in loam and peat in the rock garden ; juncifolius (the small 
Rush-leaved Daffodil), with dainty little yellow flowers ; serotinus. 



NARTHECIUM OSSIFRAGUM 303 

that bears quite small blooms, white, with yellow cup, in October ; 
and viridiflorus, the green Narcissus, which has little green blossoms 
in late autumn. 

Prominent among the newer kinds are those known as Engle- 
heartii Narcissi, which are distinguished by broad, spreading, perianth 
segments and flat, large crown, often of bright colouring. The larger 
varieties are now classed as incomparabilis or chalice-cupped 
Narcissi. 

Narthecium ossifragum (Bog Asphodel). — This pretty plant, 
which belongs to the Lily family (Liliaceae), and is native of Europe 
(including Britain), thrives only in boggy spots and where it is fully 
exposed to the sun. It produces grass-like leaves, while the yellow 
flowers are borne towards the end of the summer on stems about 
12 inches high. Propagation is readily effected by division in early 
spring. 

Nasturtium {Water Cress) — The only species to mention is the 
Common Water Cress (Natural Order Cruciferae), a well-known British 
plant which will thrive in boggy spots. In many districts it is much 
cultivated for the sake of its tender shoots, which are largely eaten 
as a salad. It is increased by cuttings, division, or by seeds in spring. 

Nasturtium. — {See Tropaeolum.) 

Navel Wort. — {See Omphalodes.) 

Neillia is a group of shrubs closely allied to Spiraea ; they belong 
to the Rose family (Rosaceae). A number of the species are coarse- 
growing shrubs, but a few are of graceful appearance. The best- 
knov/n kinds bear white flowers in May, but there are one or two new 
Chinese sorts which bear pink flowers. Neillia opulifolia is perhaps 
the best known ; a native of North America, it grows from 6 to 9 
feet high ; there is a golden-leaved form called lutea, which is valued 
for its yellow foliage. Neillia capitata and NeilHa Amurensis are 
other vigorous sorts suitable for the back of a shrubbery. NeilHa 
Sinensis, from Central China, is a new shrub of graceful growth with 
pink flowers ; thyrsiflora, from the Himalaya, is also a graceful bush, 
but not very hardy. Plant in ordinary garden soil and cut out old 
branches sometimes. Increase by cuttings in summer. 

Nemesia. — The chief interest in the members of this genus (which 
belong to the Snapdragon family, Scrophulariaceae, and are natives 
of South Africa) is centred not in the half-dozen species or so, but 
in the splendid race of hardy annuals that have been obtained from 
them. The kind that has played chief part in the production of 
the modern varieties is Nemesia stnimosa, of which the flowers are 
of yellow or orange tint. New varieties with blooms in shades of 



304 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

blue, white, yellow, orange, pink, carmine, scarlet, and crimson, can 
be obtained. Those with the larger flowers grow 12 inches or more 
higli. but there is a dwarf strain with smaller blossoms, borne in pro- 
fusion, the best being Blue Gem of Forget-me-not blue. For early 
flowering the seeds of the Nemesia are usually sown under glass in 
March, and the young plants put out when danger from frosts is 
over. The possession of a glasshouse is not necessary for the cul- 
tivation of these beautiful flowers, as seed sown out-of-doors late 
in April germinates freely, and produces a wealth of blossom in July 
and August. Seedlings of the ordinary varieties may be put 6 or 8 
inches apart, the dwarf kinds being somewhat closer. The Nemesias 
are not of vigorous growth, and are useful, for example, for carpeting 
the ground beneath tall plants, such as Standard Roses. They are 
seen at their best in well-dug sandy loam, and in a sunny position. 

Nemophila {Californian Blue Bell). — One of the most delightful 
of our hardy annuals (Natural Order Hydrophyllaceae) is Nemophila 
insignis, which was introduced from California as long ago as 1822. 
It is of a free, spreading growth, and a succession of blossoms is kept 
up for a long time. The ordinary kind has blue flowers with white 
centre, but there are several varieties. Another species, commonly 
known as Nemophila atomaria, but which botanists tell us should 
be Menziesii, has spotted flowers ; so, too, has the nearly allied Nemo- 
phila maculata. The Nemophilas may be sown in autumn for May 
flowering, and in spring for July blossom. Like most Californian 
annuals they need hght soil and a sunny spot ; they may be planted 
in a bed to themselves, or used as an edging or carpeting. 

Nepeta (Catmint). — Some of the Nepetas are little more than 
weeds, though a few kinds are attractiv^e. They belong to the 
Sage family (Natural Order Labiatae). Included among the best 
are Nepeta Glechoma variegata, a variety of our own British Ground 
Ivy, of which the leaves are margined with white ; it is a pretty 
creeping plant for moist spots in the rock garden. Nepeta macrantha 
is a good border plant that reaches a height of about 3 feet, and bears 
spikes of deep lavender- blue flowers from July to September. The 
most useful of all is Nepeta Mussinii, from the Caucasus, which forms 
a much-branched tuft about 18 inches high ; the leaves are greyish 
and fragrant. A continuous display of pretty pale-blue flowers is 
kept up throughout the summer. The last to mention, Nepeta 
spicata, is a pretty blue-flowered perennial, from the Himalaya, 
that reaches a height of about 2 feet and blooms during summer. 
The Nepetas named are perennial and will thrive in ordinary garden 
soil, and can be readily increased by division in autumn. Nepeta 



NEPHRODIUM 305 

Mussinii is well suited for planting on an exposed sunny part of the 
rock garden, for there the grey foliage takes on its finest colouring. 

Nephrodium {Male Fern). — Most of the Nephrodiums (Natural 
Order Filices) are natives of the Tropics, and therefore require the 
temperature of a warm greenhouse for their successful cultivation. 
The finest of all the hardj^ kinds is our own native Nephrodium Filix- 
mas or Male Fern (often called Lastrea). It often forms quite a 
stem or trunk, from the apex of which the fronds are developed in a 
regular circular manner. Under cultivation many varieties have 
been raised, so that a selection of the varieties of Nephrodium Filix- 
mas alone is sufficient to form an interesting fernery. Some of the 
crested kinds are very fine. Nephrodium dilatatum (Prickly Buckler 
Fern), which is more spreading than the Male Fern, with triangular 
shaped fronds ; Goldieanum, with spreading bright green fronds ; 
montanum, a pretty mountain species ; and Thelypteris, with slender 
creeping stems, are other kinds. Nephrodium Thelypteris is known as 
the Marsh Shield Fern, and needs a shady, moist, somewhat boggy 
spot. All the others thrive in shade or half shade in soil with which 
leaf-mould has been freely mixed. These ferns may be increased 
by division during winter. 

Nertera depressa (Bead Plant). — A charming little plant (Natural 
Order Rubiaceae), native of the mountainous regions of South America. 
It forms a dense tuft of creeping shoots, clothed with tiny, ovate, 
fleshy leaves ; the flowers, which appear in summer, are insignificant, 
being of a dull greenish colour, but they are succeeded by berries 
which, when ripe, are of beautiful orange tint, and last in beauty for 
a considerable time. Nertera is more generally grown in pots or 
pans than in the open ground, but it will thrive in a partially shaded 
spot in the rock garden provided it is protected from wet in winter. 
It is readily increased by division carried out in spring. Until the 
plants are nicely rooted they should be kept in a slightly warm green- 
house, but subsequently a semi-shady airy frame is the place in 
which fruits are likely to form. 

Neviusia alabamensis, sometimes called Snow in Summer, by 
reason of its profusion of fluffy white blossoms, is a native of Alabama 
and belongs to the Rose family (Rosaceae). In ordinary garden soil 
ft grows into a wide-spreading bush 3 to 4 feet high. The flowers 
are borne in profusion during May or June, and out-of-doors are 
white or greenish-white in colour. When forced, however, they are 
pure white, and a well-flowered bush is a charming object. Propagate 
by means of cuttings in July, and thin the plants after flowering, 
cutting away some of the older shoots, 
u 



306 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

New Zealand Bur. — (See Acaena.) 

New Zealand Flax. — (See Phormium.) 

Nicotiana (Tobacco). — Some of the Tobaccos, which belong to 
the Natural Order Solanaceae, and are natives of South America, are 
grown for the sake of their handsome summer flowers, while others 
are remarkable for their large and striking foliage. They are usually 
looked upon as half-hardy annuals, though there is some doubt as 
to the correctness of this point of view. At all events, for the out- 
door flower garden they should be treated as such ; that is to say, 
the seed is sown in warmth early in March, and the young plants are 
potted and finally hardened off ready for planting out late in May. 
They need rather rich soil and a sunny situation. The best kinds are : 
afhnis (also known as alata), of which the long tubular white flowers 
exhale such a delicious perfume in the evening ; there are now many 
forms or varieties with colours ranging from white to violet and 
crimson, through various intermediate shades, all grow about 3 feet 
high. Nicotiana colossea and colossea variegata have huge leaves, 
and reach a height of 6 feet. Nicotiana Sanderae has deep rose or 
carmine flowers, and is about 3 feet high. Nicotiana sylvestris is 
of bold growth with large deep green leaves and pendent clusters of 
white flowers, 5 feet. Nicotiana Tabacum, interesting as yielding the 
Tobacco of commerce, is a handsome foliage plant, 4 to 6 feet high. 

Nierembergia.— Though several species of Nierembergia, which 
belong to the Potato family (Solanaceae), and are natives of South 
America, are known to botanists, there is only one kind in general 
cultivation, namely, Nierembergia rivularis, a pretty little trailing 
plant which, though reaching a height of only two or three inches, soon 
covers a considerable space. It should be grown in the rock garden, 
in loamy soil with which a little leaf-mould and sand are mixed. 
The comparatively large, erect, bell-shaped flowers are borne through- 
out the summer. A second kind is Nierembergia frutescens ; this, 
which is of a compact, somewhat shrubby habit, reaches a height of 
18 inches, and bears pretty blue flowers. Nierembergia rivularis 
can be readily increased by division in spring, while frutescens should 
be propagated by cuttings put in sandy soil and protected by a frame 
in August; 

Nigella (Love in a Mist). — A charming class of hardy annuals, 
belonging to the Buttercup family (Ranunculaceae), and natives of 
the Mediterranean districts. Nigella damascena, known popularly 
as Love in a Mist and Devil in a Bush, has been long popular in 
this country. It grows from 18 inches to 2 feet high, and has finely- 
cut Fennel-like leaves, some of which surround the pale blue flowers. 




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NOCCAEA 307 

There is a greatly improved variety known as Miss Jekyll, of which 
the blossoms are of deeper colouring. There is also a white variety 
(alba). The only other species of any value in the garden is Nigella 
hispanica, with purplish-blue flowers. The Nigellas are quite hardy, 
hence seed may be sown in autumn for an early display, and in April 
for a succession thereto. They do not transplant readily, for which 
reason they should be sown where they are to flower. 

Noccaea [Hutchinsia). — Noccaea alpina is a pretty little Euro- 
pean plant somewhat like a small Iberis, belonging to the Wallflower 
family (Cruciferae). It needs a warm, sunny spot and sandy soil 
in the rock garden, and bears white flowers throughout the sum- 
mer. Noccaea petraea is a tiny plant of annual duration and of no 
particular value. 

Notospartium Carmichaeliae, belonging to the Pea family 
(Leguminosae), is a curious and rare bush native of New Zealand. 
Growing but a few feet high, it has curious slender rush-like branches, 
bearing dry-looking scales in place of leaves, but in June it produces 
a profusion of small Pea-shaped blossoms of a very pretty shade of 
pink. It can only be grown out-of-doors in the southern counties, 
and even then must have a sunny position. A place at the foot 
of a wall, where it can grow freely without being trained to the wall, 
is excellent. Give loamy soil and increase by seeds. Pruning is 
not required. 

Nuphar {Yellow Water Lily). — A genus of free-growing aquatics 
with yellow blossoms. They belong to the Natural Order Nym- 
phaeaceae, are widely distributed in north temperate countries, and 
are very nearly related to the Nymphaeas. Nuphar advena, the large 
Water Lily of America, is too vigorous for small spaces of water. 
The leaves, and the flowers which are yellow outside and reddish 
within, rise considerably above the surface of the water. Nuphar 
lutea may be looked upon as the European form of the preceding. 
Nuphar minimum, sometimes known as Kalmianum, being of far less 
vigorous growth, may be planted in small ponds. If there is suffi- 
cient soil or mud at the bottom of the water all that is needed in 
planting is to tie the plant to a brick or some other weight, and drop 
it in the water at the spot where it is to grow. The weight will soon 
cause it to sink into the mud, where, pushing forth roots of its own, 
it quickly becomes established. Planting is best done in the spring: 

Nuttallia cerasiformis. — This is the Oso Berry of California, 
belonging to the Rose family (Rosaceae), and one of our earliest 
flowering shrubs, for its blossoms often expand in February. It 
attains a height of 5 or 6 feet, and adds to its width fairly rapidly 



308 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

by means of suckers from the rootstock. Male and female flowers 
are borne by different plants, and it is necessary to plant the two 
sexes together if a crop of the red Cherry-like fruits is desired. The 
flowers are white, but not very showy. Ordinary garden soil suits ; 
increase is by seeds or division of the clumps, and regular pruning 
is not required. 

IMymphaea {Water Lily). — The genus Nymphaea (Natural Order 
Nymphaeaccae) contains but few hardy species, but there are many 
varieties. Few phases of gardening have made so much advance 
in popular favour within the last decade or two as Water Gardening, 
and a great deal of this is no doubt owing to the numerous and many- 
coloured Water Lilies that have been raised. In nurseries where 
these beautiful Water Lilies are grown for sale, they are kept in pots 
for convenience of transit. When it is desired to establish them in 
ponds or spaces of water having a certain amount of soil at the bottom, 
the Lilies are usually planted in turfy loam in a loose, shallow wicker- 
basket that will easily decay ; the basket is merely to hold the soil 
in position until the plants are well-rooted. To prevent the plant 
from floating a few pieces of string should be run across from side 
to side of the basket to hold the roots in place. The months of April 
and May are the best times to plant. A suitable depth of water for 
Nymphaeas is from 12 inches to 3 feet, according to their vigour. 
A running stream is not suitable for them, for the water is too cold. 

Some of the most desirable Water Lilies are Nymphaea alba, the 
common White Water Lily ; Andreana, bright red ; candidissima 
plenissima, double white ; Carisbrookii, blush pink ; colossea, flesh- 
coloured ; Froebelii, deep crimson, passing to carmine-purple ; Glad- 
stonii, pure white, semi-double ; James Brydon, pink ; Marliacea 
chromatella, yellowish ; Marliacea ignea, carmine-red ; Marliacea 
rosea, bright rose ; Robinsoniana, violet-purple, shaded red ; sanguinea , 
bright crimson ; W. Doogue, deep pink ; and W. Falconer, ruby-red 
Less vigorous sorts suitable for small ponds and pools are : Candida, 
white ; Ellisiana, purplish ; Laydekeri fulgens, amaranth ; Lay- 
dekeri rosea, carmine-rose ; Laydekeri lucida, rose-red ; odorata, 
white, fragrant, and pygmaea, white, the smallest of all. 

Nyssa is a group of trees belonging to the Dogwood family 
(Cornaccae). The species are natives of North America, where they 
often occupy wet land, and are known under the common name of 
Tupelo. Their principal attraction here is the brilliant autumnal 
colouring of the leaves, and for this reason they deserve more ex- 
tended notice in the South of England. The two kinds most suit- 
able for the British Isles are : aquatica and sylvatica. Plant in moist 



OCIMUM 309 

land, such as the bank of a lake or stream where the roots can enter 
the water, and choose a position exposed to south and west. Increase 
by seeds in spring and prune in summer to shape the trees. 

Oak Fern. — (See Polypodium Dryopteris.) 

Ocimum (Basil). — Annual or perennial plants belonging to the 
Sage family (Labiatae), few of which have any particular horticul- 
tural value. The best known is the Sweet Basil (Ocimum Basilicum), 
a well-known fragrant herb with white blossoms ; it is readily 
increased by means of seeds sown in spring. 

Oenothera {Evening Primrose). — An extensive group of plants 
(Natural Order Onagraceae), natives chiefly of North America. Some 
are annuals and others biennials, but the majority are of perennial 
duration. By far the best known is the common Evening Primrose 
(Oenothera biennis), of which the golden-yellow blossoms are so 
conspicuous towards the close of the day. Though some kinds are 
suitable for the rock garden they are not particular as to soil, and 
will thrive in sandy loam, provided they are in a sunny spot. The 
common Evening Primrose and some of the other strong-growing 
kinds are well suited to the wild garden or woodland. Oenotheras 
may be increased by seeds, division, or by root cuttings. Seeds 
should be sown in spring, division being practised and root cuttings 
taken in autumn. 

The chief kinds are : acaulis (also known as taraxacifoHa), with 
large white flowers on trailing stems throughout summer, and leaves 
like those of the Dandelion, 6 inches ; biennis, common Evening 
Primrose, 4 to 5 feet ; eximea (caespitosa), large white flowers in 
July and August, changing to pink with age, 12 inches high ; Fraserii 
(glauca), golden-yellow flowers all summer, 2 feet ; fruticosa major, 
deep yellow, June until autumn, 2 feet ; Missouriensis, with rich yellow 
blooms in summer, is a charming trailing plant for the rock garden ; 
ovata has 4-inch high tufts of narrow leaves and golden-yellow flowers 
from April to June ; pumila is a tiny plant, 4 inches high, with yellow 
flowers in summer ; speciosa bears satiny-white blossoms from June 
to September, 2 feet, and tetraptera rosea bears rose-coloured blooms 
all the summer, 12 inches high. The annual kinds of Oenothera are 
more commonly known as Godetia, and are described under that name. 

Olea (Olive) is a group of evergreen trees and shrubs (Natural 
Order Oleaceae), the most familiar of which is the Common Olive 
(Olea europaea). This is cultivated extensively in Southern Europe, 
South Australia, California, and elsewhere for the sake of the oil 
expressed from the pulp of the fruits. This oil is known as olive oil, 
and is used for cuHnary purposes, the manufacture of the higher grades 



310 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

of soap, and other things. Pure ohve oil is very valuable, but it is 
often adulterated for minor uses. The Common Olive can be grown 
out-of-doors in Devonshire, Cornwall, and other places with a similar 
climate ; elsewhere it needs the protection of a wall. Plant in ordinary 
garden soil, increase by seeds or cuttings, and prune only to keep the 
bushes shapely. Plants grown for fruit in Southern Europe are often 
pruned into bush form to facilitate the collection of the fruits, and 
resemble bush Apple trees. Olea glandulifera, from the Himalaya, 
and verrucosa, from South Africa, may also be grown out-of-doors 
in the milder counties. The Common Olive is the host of several kinds 
of Mistletoe, one with red and another with yellow berries being 
effective in winter. 

Olearia (Daisy Bush). — ^This is an interesting and useful group 
of evergreen shrubs, natives of New Zealand and Australia, belonging 
to the Daisy family (Compositae). Only one species can be said to 
be genuinely hardy throughout the British Isles, but many may be 
grown in the south-west counties, and others thrive in selected situa- 
tions elsewhere. They are often called Daisy bushes by reason of 
their Daisy-like heads of flowers which are borne with considerable 
freedom during summer. They thrive in ordinary garden soil, prefer- 
ably rather light. Some kinds are increased by cuttings in summer 
and others by seeds. Pruning is usually confined to shaping the 
bushes and keeping them from outgrowing their positions. As a 
rule they stand severe pruning well, providing it is done in spring, 
April being a good time. Less severe pruning may be conducted 
after the flowers have fallen. 

The chief kinds are : Haastii, a New Zealand species, the hardiest 
of all and one of the most generally useful shrubs we possess ; it 
usually grows from 3 to 4 feet high, forming a shapely bush with little 
attention to pruning. The ovate leaves are deep green, about i inch 
long and thick in texture, and the white flowers appear with great 
freedom in July. It may be used for large masses, groups in shrub- 
beries, isolated specimens or hedges, either inland or fully exposed 
to sea air. Olearia macrodonta, from the same country, is a more 
vigorous bush, sometimes exceeding 6 feet in height ; its oblong leaves 
have prettily wrinkled margins ; it thrives fairly well in many parts 
of the country. Olearia stellulata is an exceedingly pretty little 
bush 2 feet or so high, with small greyish-green leaves, and bears 
a profusion of white flowers in May or June ; an excellent plant for 
the rock garden, or for a sheltered position elsewhere ; it may also be 
grown in pots for greenhouse decoration: Olearia argophylla, from 
Australia, is familiarly termed the Muskwood by reason of its Musk- 





THE COTTON THISTLE 
(ONOPORDON ACANTHIUM) 



THE MADEIRA ORCHIS (ORCHIS 
FOLIOSA) 





REST HARROW (ONONIS 
FRUTICOSA) 



THE PRICKLY PEAR 
(OPUNTIA) 



OMPHALODES 311 

scented leaves ; it attains tlie dimensions of a small tree, but is only 
of value for the warmer counties. Other useful kinds for warm 
gardens are : compacta, Forsteri, insignis, nitida, nummularifolia, 
pannosa, and Traversii. 

Omphalodes [Navel Wort). — These attractive plants belong to 
the Borage family (Boraginaceae), and are natives principally of the 
Mediterranean region. Omphalodes linifolia is a charming little hardy 
annual, which is seen to advantage in a sheltered, partially shaded 
spot in the rock garden ; it is usually somewhat less than 12 inches 
high, and the neat white flowers are freely produced ; once established 
from seeds sown in spring it very often reproduces itself from self- 
sown seeds. Of the perennial species the best are cappadocica (corni- 
folia), from Asia Minor, with rich blue Forget-me-not-like flowers in 
early summer, 12 inches ; nitida, native of Portugal, with bright 
blue flowers from March to June, 12 inches ; verna, from Southern 
Europe, intense blue, May to August, 6 inches ; and Luciliae, from 
Greece, with glaucous leaves and lilac-blue flowers in June. The 
perennials need a sheltered position in the rock garden and well- 
drained sandy loam. The most difficult to grow is Luciliae, which 
needs gritty loam and half shade ; nitida ought to be kept in a frame 
during winter, for it is not very hardy. Seeds sown in autumn or 
spring afford a ready means of increase. 

Onoclea sensibilis. — A very pretty hardy fern (Natural Order 
Filices), native of North America, nearly related to the Royal Fern 
(Osmunda), and, like this, bearing its spores on separate fronds. It 
attains a height of 18 inches to 2 feet, and grows freely in good soil 
in a moist and moderately shaded spot. It is increased by division 
of the creeping rhizomes before growth recommences. 

Ononis {Rest Harrow). — Shrubby, sub-shrubby, or herbaceous 
plants from temperate climes, belonging to the Pea family (Legu- 
minosae). Ononis spinosa is the British plant which is known familiarly 
as the Rest Harrow ; it is a pretty half-shrubby kind with showy 
pinkish Pea-shaped flowers, and is found in dry pastures and sandy 
wastes near the sea throughout the country. One of the best of the 
shrubby kinds is Aragonensis, a dense bush i to 2 feet high, native 
of the Pyrenees ; its Pea-shaped flowers are golden and borne in pro- 
fusion during May and June ; it is a sun-loving plant, and excellent 
for an exposed position on the rockery. Propagate by cuttings or 
seeds and remove the old flower-heads after the flowers have faded. 
Ononis fruticosa and rotundifolia are showy shrubs with rather soft 
wood ; both produce pinkish flowers in profusion during early summer. 
They are natives of Southern Europe, and require full sun with light 



312 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

loamy soil. Increase is carried out l)y means of seeds. Pruning may 
take the form of shortening the longest shoots in spring. They are 
equally at home in the rock garden or border. 

Onopordon (Cotton Thistle).— Some of these striking plants are 
well worth a place in the wild garden or woodland, or even in a large 
border ; they belong to the Daisy family (Compositae), and are 
natives of Europe and Asia Minor. The best are Onopordon Acan- 
thium (Scotch Thistle), bracteatum, and opolucephalum. The 
flowers of each are purplish-white, the plants reach a height of 6 to 
8 feet. They are readily raised from seeds and will grow in ordinary 
soil. Seed should be sown in spring. 

Onosma (Golden Drop). — Pretty plants belonging to the Borage 
family (Boraginaceae) with flowers chiefly of some shade of white 
or yellow. They thrive in sandy loam, but are apt to suffer unless 
the soil is well drained, for which reason they are seen at their best 
in the rock garden in a spot fully exposed to the sun. They grow from 
6 to 12 inches high, and bear their tubular- shaped flowers in terminal, 
partially drooping, racemes. The principal species are : albo-roseum, 
white, changing to pink ; Bourgaei, pure white ; echioides (often 
known as taurica), golden-yellow ; and stellulatum, yellowish. They 
all bloom more or less throughout the summer, and can be increased 
by seeds or by division. Seeds should be sown in spring and division 
carried out in early autumn. All have hairy foliage, and they must 
be in a sunny spot ; it is wise to protect the plants from rain in winter 
by a pane of glass supported some inches above them. They are 
natives of Southern Europe and Asia Minor. 

Ophioglossum (Adder's Tongue). — This strange-looking plant, 
which grows wild in Britain, would not be looked upon by the un- 
initiated as a member of the Fern family (Natural Order Filices), as 
in general appearance it is widely removed from plants of that order. 
In a wild state it frequently occurs in grassy meadows, where in a 
moderately moist situation it will grow I2 inches high, but in drier 
uplands its height is much less. It is deciduous, and forms a bud, 
not a tuber, from which fleshy horizontal roots are produced. These 
occasionally develop a bud, and thus form a plant some inches from 
the parent. The simple barren fronds of Ophioglossum are borne on 
long stalks, and are similar in shape to an arrow-head. The fertile frond 
is like a tongue, the spore cases being arranged in two opposite rows. 
Wonderful medicinal values were formerly attached to Ophioglossum. 
It will thrive in a cool, fairly moist part of the rock garden in loamy soil. 

Ophrys (Bee Orchis). — A group of Orchids (Natural Order Orchi- 
daceae), found wild in Britain, that form roots of a more or less tuber- 



OPUNTIA 313 

ous nature. They are not at all showy, but are extremely interesting 
from the fact that the flowers bear a certain resemblance to insects, 
etc. ; hence their popular names. They succeed best in chalky 
loam and in a partially shaded position. Some of them occur freely 
on the chalky downs in the South of England. The chief kinds are : 
apifera (Bee Orchis), flowers green and rose ; Arachnites (Black 
Spider Orchis), rose-purple and green ; aranifera (Spider Orchis), 
green and brown ; bombilifera (Humble Bee Orchis), chocolate-brown 
and green ; lutea, yellow and purple ; speculum, green, yellow, and 
blue ; and muscifera (Fly Orchis), green and dark red. All bloom 
in early summer. 

Opuntia {Prickly Fig).— The hardy kinds, of which there are 
very few, are dealt with under the heading of Cactus. 

Orchis. — The various kinds of Orchis (Natural Order Orchidaceae) 
are terrestrial Orchids, native chiefly of Europe and Asia Minor, 
while some are found wild in Britain. Orchis foliosa, which comes 
from Madeira, is one of the most handsome of all. In peat and loam, 
in a cool, moist spot, the flower stems will reach a height of from 
18 to 24 inches ; the blooms are purplish-rose and open in May. The 
Marsh Orchis (latifolia) is a showy native plant, about 12 inches 
high, bearing purplish blossoms in June. The Spotted Orchis (macu- 
lata), also found wild in Britain, has handsomely spotted leaves 
and rose-purple blooms in early summer. A variety of this, known 
as superba, is especially fine. Others are : mascula, 4 or 5 inches 
high, with purplish flowers in April— one may sometimes find a meadow 
carpeted with this kind ; pyramidalis, 12 inches, having rose-coloured 
flowers in June ; and the Soldier Orchis (militaris), which grows 
about 15 inches high, and bears purplish blooms in April. All these 
kinds may be grown in loam and peat with which sand is mixed, 
and need a fairly cool spot ; they dislike being disturbed, and should 
be planted as early in autumn as the roots can be obtained. 

Origanum (Marjonmi). — One species of Origanum (Natural Order 
Labiatae), namely vulgare, is a well-known herb, being extensively 
grown under the name of Marjoram. It is of no particular ornamental 
value, but the others are exceedingly pretty little bushy plants, 
about I foot high, that form a pleasing feature on a sunny part of 
the rock garden where they bloom during summer. The little ovate 
leaves are densely hairy, and the popular name of pink Hops conveys 
a good idea of the general appearance of the inflorescence. The best 
are Dictamnus (Dittany of Crete), and hybridum, both with pink 
flowers, and pulchmm, in which the blooms are pale rose. Origanums 
thrive in ordinary sandy soil, and may be increased by division when 



314 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

domiant, or by cuttings of the young shoots taken when they are 
about 3 inches long, inserted in pots of sandy soil, and placed in 
a close frame until they root, after which they can be planted out-of- 
doors. 

Ornithogalum. — An extensive group of bulbous plants (Natural 
Order Liliaceae), natives principally of the Mediterranean region and 
South Africa. The South African kinds can only be planted in a 
well-drained border, close to a warm wall, such as is recommended 
for Babiana. Many of the others, however, are quite hardy and of 
considerable value in the garden. The best are : arabicum, having 
large white flowers with dark centre, on spikes i8 inches high ; nutans, 
with drooping Blue Bell-Hke flowers of silvery-grey and greenish tint ; 
pyramidale, pure white, striped with green at the back ; pyrenaicum, 
greenish-yellow ; and umbellatum (Star of Bethlehem), whitish starry 
flowers, borne close together on a short sturdy spike. The last- 
named flowers in spring, the others in early summer. The bulbs 
should be planted by the end of September in sandy loam. Ornitho- 
galum umbellatum is a most accommodating plant, and thrives 
excellently in a shady border, or may be planted in grass. 

Orobus. — {See Lathyrus.) 

Orobus vernus (Spring Vetch). — This is a pretty little border 
plant, native of Europe, and member of the Pea family (Legumi- 
nosae) ; it grows about 12 inches high, thrives best in sandy, well- 
drained border soil, and bears purplish-blue flowers in April. 

Orontium (Golden Club). — A plant belonging to the Natural 
Order Araceae, and native of North America ; in general appearance 
it is similar to Arum. It has a fleshy rootstock, from which thick, 
dark green, ovate leaves are produced, while in May the golden club- 
like blossoms are produced. This Orontium is an aquatic, and if 
planted in good soil at the bottom of 6 to 12 inches of water, it will 
grow rapidly. 

Orris Root. — (See Iris florentina.) 

Osmanthus.— This is a useful family of evergreen shrubs be- 
longing to the Olive family (Oleaceae). The commonest species is 
Osmanthus Aquifolium, from Japan ; it forms a shapely bush, 3 to 
5 feet high, with Holly-like leaves, possessing the pecuharity of those 
of the Common Holly, namely, of being spiny-margined on young 
plants and almost spineless on aged specimens. The flowers are 
white, fragrant, and borne during winter. The variety purpureus 
differs from the type by having purplish leaves, whilst variegatus has 
silver variegated foliage, and rotundifolius small and more rounded 
leaves than the typical kind. There are other kinds, such as lati- 




riwto . r. <.r. I illaia 

HARDY HERBACEOUS FLOWERS IN A FORMAL GARDEN 



OSMUNDA 315 

folius, with larger leaves ; and Delavayi, a smaller bush, with rather 
small leaves and pretty white flowers. All thrive in loamy soil con- 
taining a little peat, and may be increased by cuttings inserted in 
sandy soil in a warm and closed frame in summer. Pruning to 
shape the bushes may be done during summer. 

Osmunda {Royal Fern). — Of our various hardy Ferns, Osmunda 
regalis (Natural Order Filices), is unsurpassed, for, given a suitable 
position, it will grow from 6 to 8 feet in height, or even more. It 
is popularly termed the Royal Fern, and certainly that title is well 
deserved. This fern, which is found wild over the greater part of 
the globe, is seen at its best in this country in wet, marshy districts. 
There it forms a mass of solid rootstocks, bound together by stout 
black wiry roots, totally unlike those of any other fern. The fronds 
— which are bi-pinnate or twice divided — are from 3 to 6 feet in 
length. The spores are borne, not at the back of the fronds, but 
on spike-like masses towards the upper part of the fronds in the 
centre of the plant. For waterside planting this fern is one of the 
best plants we have. Two North American species are also very 
beautiful, but they do not need so moist a spot as the Royal Fern, 
although they must be watered freely in summer. They are : 
cinnamomea and Claytoniana, which form handsome tufts 2 feet 
high and twice as much through ; the fronds are but once divided 
instead of twice, as in Osmunda regalis. Strange to say, when only 
barren fronds are produced cinnamomea and Claytoniana are difficult 
to distinguish from each other, but the fertile fronds of the former are 
wholly spore-bearing, while in Claytoniana the capsules are confined 
to the middle of the frond, both the lower and upper part being barren. 
A pretty small Osmunda is japonicum corymbiferum, which grows only 
about 12 inches high, while the points of the spreading fronds are 
prettily crested ; it is not adapted for planting under such conditions 
as the others, but for a damp spot in the rock garden it is well suited. 

Ostrowskia magnifica (Asiatic Bell Flower). — When well grown 
this must be regarded as one of the most striking of herbaceous peren- 
nials. It belongs to the Natural Order Campanulaceae, and is native 
of Central Asia. The roots, which are thick, fleshy, and excessively 
brittle, produce stout stems 4 to 5 feet high, terminated by numerous 
open bell-shaped flowers, about 6 inches across, mauve and white. 
The plant should not be disturbed ; the best results are obtained by 
planting it in deep, rich, well-drained loam with which some old 
mortar has been mixed. A warm and sheltered position, such as 
at the foot of a south wall, is essential. Ostrowskia can be raised 
from seeds sown in sandy soil as soon as ripe, and placed in a frame. 



3i6 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

The young plants, when sufficiently advanced, should be planted in 
their permanent quarters. 

Ostrya.— This is a group of trees allied to the Hornbeam and 
belonging to the Natural Order Corylaceae. The commonest species 
is carpinifolia, the Hop Hornbeam, of Southern Europe and the Orient. 
The common name refers to the general aspect of the tree, which 
resembles that of the Hornbeam, whereas the fruit has a Hop-like 
character. It forms a moderate-sized round-headed tree with ex- 
ceptionally hard and heavy wood. Ostrya japonica, a native of Japan, 
is less well known, and quite young trees are its only representatives 
in the British Isles ; the fruits are rather ornamental and Hop-hke. 
Ostrya virginica, the Ironwood of North America, is a distinct tree 
suitable for park planting. All thrive in ordinary garden soil, preferring 
that of a loamy nature. They are increased by seeds and pruning 
is directed towards keeping young trees in shape and the leaders 
clear. This may be done in summer. 

Othonnopsis cheirifoiia. — The only member of the genus Othon- 
nopsis in general cultivation is cheirifoiia, which forms a spreading 
plant about 12 inches high, clothed with grey, thick evergreen 
foliage. It belongs to the Daisy family (Compositae), and has yellow 
Marguerite-hke flowers on long stems. It is a first-rate plant for 
a dry, sunny position in the rock garden, where it will flower from 
June until August ; a thoroughly drained spot is necessary. It can 
be propagated by division, or by cuttings of the young shoots in 
spring as soon as they are sufficiently advanced. They must be pro- 
tected by a frame or hand-light until rooted. 

Ourieia coccinea.- — A charming perennial that will keep up a 
succession of its scarlet Pentstemon-like blossoms from summer 
until autumn. It belongs to the Snapdragon family (Scrophulari- 
aceae), and is native of the island of Chiloe, South America. It 
grows from 9 to 12 inches high. The conditions most favourable 
to its success are a moist soil and a partially shaded spot. It is 
increased readily by division in early spring. 

Oxalis (Wood Sorrel). — The Wood Sorrels form an extensive 
group of low-growing plants, native of South America, South Africa, 
and other countries, and belonging to the Geranium family (Gera- 
niaceae). Many of them have tuberous roots. A few of the hardy 
kinds are favourite rock garden flowers. The British Wood Sorrel, 
or, as it is sometimes called, Shamrock (Oxalis Acetosella), is a pretty 
little native wild flower, found wild in partially-shady spots and in 
leafy soil ; its dainty white flowers open in April ; it is charming for 
grouping here and there in odd corners of the rockery or the wood- 



OXYCOCCUS 317 

land. Oxalis adenophylla, pink, and enneaphylla; white, veined with 
lilac, are invaluable flowers for the rock garden ; they have grey, 
deeply-cut, rounded leaves, and in summer bear their beautiful 
blooms in profusion. Rosea is an attractive variety of Oxalis 
enneaphylla, having rose-coloured blooms. A half-shady spot and 
a compost of loam and leaf-soil, together with a free sprinkling of sand 
and grit, suit them well. Both kinds are natives of the Falkland 
Islands. Oxalis corniculata rubra is a free-growing creeper with 
bronze leafage and yellow flowers in spring ; it spreads very quickly, 
and should not be grouped among choice plants. 

Oxycoccus is a group of shrubs (Natural Order Vacciniaceae), 
allied to Vaccinium. Two species are sometimes grown : macro- 
carpus, the American Cranberry, and palustris, the Common Cran- 
berry of the Northern Hemisphere. Both are of shrubby character, 
but of more or less prostrate growth, the branches rarely rising more 
than 9 inches above the ground. Essentially bog-loving plants, they 
do little good in dry positions, though they may sometimes be kept 
alive in borders by giving the soil a mulch of sphagnum moss to 
conserve the moisture. The flowers are pinkish, and the red fruits 
are showy in autumn and winter. Increase is by seeds or division. 
Pruning is not required. 

Oxydendron arboreum is the Sorrel Tree or Sourwood of North 
AiYierica. It belongs to the Heather family (Ericaceae), and here is 
seen as a bush or sometimes as a small tree 12 to 15 feet high. The 
leaves are deciduous, and turn to a brilliant scarlet or orange-scarlet 
tint in autumn, while about July or early August the large panicles 
of white flowers are also attractive. It is a somewhat fastidious 
plant, and only gives the best results when planted in naturally moist 
peat or sandy loam containing a little peat, and in a sunny position. Its 
beauty, both as regards flowers and autumnal colouring, however, 
entitles it to consideration. It is increased by seeds. The flower- 
heads should be removed when the flowers fade ; regular pruning 
is unnecessary. It gives good results in some parts of Surrey. 

Oxytropis. — Dwarf Vetch-like perennials, belonging to the Pea 
family (Leguminosae), growing about 12 inches high. They thrive 
best in hot, dry soils, and bloom during summer. The chief kinds 
are : alpestris, cream ; argentea, white ; Lambertii, rosy-carmine ; 
and ochroleuca, yellowish. They can be raised from seeds sown in 
spring and placed in a frame until the seedlings are sufficiently 
advanced to be removed to the open ground. 

Pachysandra. — A small group of low-growing evergreen shrubs, 
belonging to the Spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). Two species 



3i8 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

are sometimes grown, procumbens, from North America, and ter- 
minals, from Japan. They usually grow about i foot high, and 
spread by means of shoots from the rootstock. Plant on the rockery 
or in a border in light loam, increase by division, and do not prune 
regularly. These plants are of no great value. 

Paeon i a {Paeony). — As far as actual species or wild types are 
concerned, the genus Paeonia, which belongs to the Buttercup family 
(Ranunculaceae), is not a particularly extensive one. There are, 
however, innumerable garden varieties which serve to place Paeonies 
in the front rank of hardy herbaceous plants. The Paeonies are 
divided into two classes, firstly, those that are herbaceous — i.e. 
dying to the ground during winter — and secondly, the so-called Tree 
Paeonies. These are not strictly trees, but they are of a woody 
character, and form permanent shrubs. 

Prominent among the herbaceous kinds are : albillora, white, 
the parent of many garden varieties ; anomala, from Siberia, prettily 
cut leaves, rose-coloured flowers ; arietina, native of the Orient, 
rose ; Emodi, from China, white ; officinalis, native of Europe, 
rich crimson ; peregrina, from the Orient, bright crimson ; tenui- 
folia, dark crimson ; and Wittmanniana, yellowish. 

Paeonia officinalis, the commonest of all, is a magnificent plant 
and among the earliest of the Paeonies to expand, being at its best 
towards the end of May and early June ; it is, however, forestalled 
by Paeonia anomala. Even before the blossoms appear Paeonia 
officinalis is attractive, as the young foliage and leaf stalks are heavily 
tinged with red ; by the time the flowers expand the leaves acquire 
their normal deep green tint. This species is one of the most vigorous, 
and will hold its own under varied conditions. In the herbaceous 
border it forms a striking feature, but is seen to even greater advan- 
tage in bold groups in the shrubbery or other conspicuous places. 
The fact that this magnificent Paeony can be purchased cheaply is 
another point in its favour. 

Of the garden varieties of herbaceous Paeonies there is a very 
long list, from which a selection serves to maintain a display in late 
May and throughout June. All the following are good : Abel de 
Pujol, clear rose ; Albatross, white ; Ambrose Verschaffelt, violet- 
crimson ; Canary, yellowish ; Caroline Allain, soft pink ; Constance 
Devret, ruby-carmine ; Duchesse de Nemours, white, shaded in the 
centre with lemon ; Faust, pale pink ; Festiva maxima, white ; 
Gloire de Douai, rich amaranth red ; Henri Demay, crimson-rose ; 
Jules Lebon, rich rose ; Marie Lemoine, creamy-white ; Madame 
Emile Galle, rich pink ; Millais, amaranth red ; Octavie Demay, 



PAEONIA 319 

pink, very early ; Reine des Roses, rose ; Surpasse Pottsii, dark 
crimson ; Tricolor, rose, yellow, and lilac ; Vicomte de TAlma, violet- 
red ; Victor Lemoine, carmine ; and Virginie, light lilac-rose. The 
above-named varieties have double or semi-double flowers. 

The following are single : Abyla, rose ; albiflora carnea, pale pink ; 
albiflora simplex, white ; Dorothy, silvery-pink ; Enchantress, rich 
rose ; Kathleen, rose, shaded white ; Rosy Morn, pale blush ; and 
Twynham Glory, pink. 

In order to have Paeonies at their best the soil should be deeply 
dug, some well-decayed manure being mixed in, though the ground 
must not be made too rich. The most suitable soil is sandy loam ; 
it is far preferable to heavy land, though this may be improved by 
adding sand, wood ashes, and fine mortar rubble. The time and 
manner of planting are of some importance. Paeonies ought not to 
be transplanted often, for once established they will continue to 
flower in a satisfactory manner for years, especially if given a mulch- 
ing of decayed manure in early spring. Transplanting should be done 
towards the end of September and in October, not later. In trans- 
planting old clumps of Paeonies, success cannot be looked for if they 
are simply lifted and planted undisturbed in their new quarters. 
The clumps should be broken up into pieces, consisting of four or 
five crowns. It is not sufficient to chop them into pieces with a spade ; 
the way to proceed is to take two garden forks placed back to back 
and drive them into the roots well below the crowns ; by pressing 
the handles outwards the clump will be wrenched asunder without 
injuring the shoots. After this a strong knife, carefully used, will 
do the rest. The roots must be planted at such a depth that the 
crowns are about 2 inches below the surface, while 2 feet apart is a 
suitable distance to place them. 

Tree Paeony. — The only Tree or shrubby Paeony in our gardens 
for many years was the Japanese Paeonia Moutan. This has been 
supplemented by Paeonia lutea, a yellow-flowered kind from China, 
at present rare. Rarer still and very costly are some hybrids between 
the two. Paeonia Moutan and its varieties need deep loamy soil, 
and a situation where the morning's sun does not shine on them ; 
though perfectly hardy they start into growth early, and the young 
shoots are liable to injury by late frost. The damage is all the more 
severe if the sun shines on them when frozen. The typical Paeonia 
Moutan has large white flowers, with a blotch at the base of the 
petals ; the varieties vary in colour from white to deep crimson: 
Most of these are of Japanese origin and bear Japanese names, such 
as Adsuma-saki, Bunbudo, Kami-asobi, Tokiwadsu, etc. 



320 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Paiiurus australis (Christ's Thorn). — This shrub belongs to the 
Natural Order Rhamnaceae, and is a native of Southern Europe. Its 
popular name applies to its legendary associations with the " Crown 
of thorns," used at the Saviour's Crucifixion. It may be found as a 
dense bush 6 to 12 feet high, or as a small tree upwards of 20 feet 
in height. The small twiggy branches are clothed with pale green 
leaves and with many sharp thorns. The small yellow flowers are 
produced freely in spring, and are succeeded by circular fruits, the 
central seed being surrounded by a curious membranous wing. 
Plant in ordinary garden soil and increase by seeds. Pruning does 
not require regular attention. Simply reduce plants which are out- 
growing their positions. 

Pampas Grass. ^(5<Jg Cortaderia.) 

Pancratium. — There are several tender kinds of Pancratium 
^Natural Order Amaryllidaceae) in cultivation, the only hardy ones 
being two from Southern Europe : illyricium and maritimum. Both 
are bulbous plants, and produce a number of strap-shaped leaves ; 
the flower stem, which appears in early summer, is terminated by an 
umbel of white, fragrant, funnel-shaped blossoms. The plants need 
fairl)' warm spot, such as a narrow border in front of a greenhouse 
facing south or at the foot of a wall with a similar aspect. The bulbs 
should be planted in September or October, and protected in winter. 

Panicum. — An extensive group of Grasses (Natural Order 
Gramineae), some of which are of considerable economic value. One 
of the most prominent in this respect is The Millet (Panicum 
miliaceum). Some of them are very ornamental, especially capillare, 
plicatum, tonsum, and virgatum. They are generally included in 
collections of ornamental Grasses, and may be sown out-of-doors 
in a warm border in April, where they are to flower. 

Pansy.— (See Viola tricolor.) 

Papaver (Poppy).— The Poppies (Natural Order Papaveraceae) 
are natives of the temperate parts of Europe and Asia, and consist 
of annual, biennial, and perennial kinds. Of perennials the chief is 
Papaver oiientale, from Asia Minor. This grows about 3 feet high, 
and bears large scarlet flowers, with black blotch at the base of each 
segment. In the many varieties the blossoms vary in colour from 
white to deep crimson, through pink, salmon and terra-cotta. The 
Oriental Poppy and its varieties thrive in ordinary garden soil in 
a sunny spot or even in half shade. They bloom from May to Jul3% 
while a few flowers are often produced during autumn. 

Of biennial kinds the best are : Papaver alpinum (Alpine Poppy), 
a plant about 6 inches high, with silvery leaves and summer flowers 



PARADISIA LILIASTRU?vI 321 

that vary in colour from white to orange ; it is a charming kind for 
the rock garden in hght soil and a sunny spot. Papaver nudicaule 
(Iceland Poppy) is somewhat similar, but taller, and altogether more 
vigorous ; the flowers are of different shades of white, yellow, orange, 
and scarlet, exceedingly useful for cutting. The seed of these two 
kinds should be sown in early summer to flower the following year ; 
they are strictly perennial, though short-lived, and are best raised 
from seed each year. 

Annual Poppies should be sown in March or April where they 
are to flower. Care must be taken not to sow too thickly ; healthy 
plants need to be i8 inches or 2 feet apart. One of the principal 
annual species is Papaver somniferum (Opium Poppy), of which there 
are numerous garden forms that differ markedly from each other 
and from the typical kind. Many of them have popular names, 
such as Cardinal, Mikado, Mephisto, White Swan, Mauve Queen, etc. 
All are remarkably showy. Another favourite set of annual Poppies 
has been obtained from our common Field Poppy (Papaver Rheas) ; 
they are known as Shirley Poppies, and in growth are similar to the 
Field Poppy, except in the colour of the blossoms, which are of almost 
endless shades and very dainty. 

Paradisia Liliastrum {Saint Bruno's Lily). — This plant, which is 
more generally known as Anthericum Liliastrum, is a showy perennial, 
native of Southern Europe, and belongs to the Lily family (LiHaceae). 
From a thickened rootstock several grass-like leaves are produced, 
and in June the flower-spike, about 3 feet high, bears several flowers 
of the purest white ; they are broadly funnel-shaped and somewhat 
suggestive of those of the Madonna Lily (Lilium candidum). Para- 
disia will thrive in ordinary garden soil. 

Pardanthus chinensis {Leopard Flower).- — An Iris-like plant 
(Natural Order Iridaceae) that reaches a height of 2 feet and in June 
and July bears numerous flowers about 2 inches across, orange spotted 
with purple ; the individual blooms last but a short time. This 
plant needs a warm, well-drained soil ; it should be planted in spring, 
and can be increased by division carried out at that season. It is 
also known by the name of Belamcanda punctata. 

Paris {Herb Paris). — A strange plant (Natural Order Liliaceae) 
that grows about 12 inches high and in early summer bears yellowish- 
green flowers ; usually four leaves are produced by each plant. This 
is a native of Europe, including Britain. A second species, Paris 
polyphylla, from the Himalaya, has blossoms of much the same 
colour, but with an increased number of leaves. Both prefer a moder- 
ately light, moist soil and a shady spot. 



322 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Parnassia (Grass of Parnassus). — One species, namely Parnassia 
palustris (Natural Order Saxifragaceae), is a native of Britain, in 
some parts of which it is popularly termed the Grass of Parnassus. 
It is essentially a bog plant, under which conditions it reaches a 
height of 6 inches or more, and bears towards the latter part of the 
summer a great number of pretty little white flowers. Other species 
are : asarifolia, caroliniana, and fimbriata, all of which greatly 
resemble each other. These last three are all natives of North 
America. 

Parochetus communis (Blue-flowered Shamrock). — A charming 
little trailing plant for a warm, sunny, well-drained spot in the rock 
garden, where it flowers in late summer, and often into autumn. It 
belongs to the Pea family (Leguminosae), and is native of the Hima- 
laya. The blossoms are Pea-shaped, and of a delightful shade of 
blue. Increase is by division carried out in spring or by seeds sown 
at the same time. 

Paronychia (Nail Wort). — Small plants (Natural Order Ille- 
braceae) for a sunny rockery ; they flower usually in June, and are 
fairly pretty, but their ornamental qualities do not rank very high. 
The best are : Paronychia capitata and serpyllifolia ; both have 
white flowers, and can be readily increased by division. 

Parrotia. — There are two species of Parrotia, which belong to 
the Witch Hazel family (Hamamelidaceae). Both are small trees, 
but they are quite distinct in other respects. Parrotia Jacquemontiana 
is a native of the Western Himalaya, and blooms during early summer 
after the development of the leaves. The flowers are small and in- 
conspicuous, and they are arranged in short dense spikes attended 
by white bracts an inch or more across, which are the showy part 
of the inflorescence. The other species is Parrotia persica, from 
Persia ; it blooms on the leafless branches in February, the small 
flowers appearing freely in clusters from buds on all parts of the 
branches, the showy part being the bright red stamens. A well- 
flowered tree is a very conspicuous object. There is a second orna- 
mental period in autumn, for the leaves colour brilliantly before they 
fall. Both kinds require sunny positions in well-drained loamy 
soil. Propagation is by seeds, and pruning is directed towards shaping 
the trees, the most suitable time being summer. 

Parsley Fern. — (See Allosorus crispus.) 

Parthenium (Feverfew). — This, which some authorities now group 
in the genus Chrysanthemum under the name of Chrysanthemum 
Parthenium, is a Chamomile-like plant (Natural Order Compositae), 
with flowers suggestive of Daisies. There is a free- flowering variety 



PASSIFLORA 323 

with double blossoms, which, if sown out-of-doors in spring, will 
flower for a considerable period in the summer. It thrives in any 
ordinary garden soil. 

Partridge Berry.— (5^6 Gaultherl\.) 

Pasque Flower.— (See Anemone Pulsatilla.) 

Passiflora (Passion Flower). — Of the numerous Passion Flowers 
(Natural Order Passifloraceae), the only kinds that can be con- 
sidered hardy in this country are the Brazilian Passiflora caerulea 
and its white-flowered variety Constance Elliott. Both are delightful 
and rapid-growing shrubby climbers. They prefer a warm, sunny 
position, and will thrive in ordinary garden soil. Given a bright, 
hot summer, the fruits, in addition to the flowers, are decidedly orna- 
mental ; they are somewhat egg-shaped, hang suspended by long 
stalks, and when ripe are bright yellow. When seed ripens young 
plants can be readily obtained in this way. The best results are 
obtained by sowing the seeds in spring, in a well-drained pot of sandy 
soil, and putting the young plants in single pots as soon as they are 
large enough. Seedlings, however, do not flower so freely when 
young as those propagated by means of cuttings, which are formed 
from 3'oung shoots in early summer ; they are cut 4 inches in length, 
and dibbled in pots of sandy soil, placed in a frame kept close and 
shaded. Providing there is ample space for their development, Passi- 
floras require practically no pruning, but when they have covered the 
position assigned to them, the shoots of the preceding year may be 
cut back to two or three buds in spring, old and exhausted or much- 
tangled shoots being cut out altogether. 

Passion Flower. — {See Passiflora.) 

Patrinia. — These are free-flowering border plants nearly related 
to the Valerian ; they belong to the Natural Order Valerianaceae, 
and are natives of Northern Asia. They reach a height of about 2 feet, 
and the flowers are in terminal corymbs in June and July. The two 
kinds generally cultivated are scabiosaefolia and villosa, both having 
yellow flowers. They thrive in ordinary garden soil, and can readily 
be increased by division when dormant. Seeds, too, afford a ready 
means of propagation ; they should be sown in a sheltered border 
out-of-doors in spring. 

Paulownia imperialis is a handsome tree, native of Japan, 
belonging to the same family as the Snapdragon (Scrophulariaceae). 
It is ornamental alike by reason of its large broad leaves and hand- 
some flowers. On young vigorous plants the leaves are sometimes 
upwards of 2 feet across, and for that reason people sometimes plant 
groups of young trees in rich soil and cut them down to the ground 



324 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

each spring. During summer, pole-like shoots, 8 or 9 feet high, are 
formed which are clothed from base to summit with their handsome 
leaves. On older specimens the leaves may be less than g inches 
across. The violet-blue or purplish flowers are tubular in shape and 
borne in terminal panicles in spring. Unfortunately, the tree is only 
hardy enough for the southern counties. Plant in loamy soil, increase 
by seeds, and limit the pruning to shaping the trees and keeping the 
leaders clear whilst young. A new species has been introduced from 
China which, it is thought, will be hardier than the old one. It is 
called Fargesii, and is similar in general appearance to the Japanese 
tree. Good examples of Paulownia imperialis are sometimes seen 
about London, but they rarely flower. 

Pea, Everlasting. — {See Lathyrus latifolius.) 

Pea, Sweet. — {See Lathyrus odoratus.) 

Pelargonium. — Of the several sections into which the South 
African Pelargoniums (Natural Order Geraniaceae) are divided, 
practically the only two that are employed for the outdoor garden 
are the Zonal and Ivy-leaved sorts. The Zonal Pelargoniums 
embrace those commonly termed Scarlet Geraniums, though the 
colour of the blossoms ranges from white to deep crimson. Large 
numbers are grown for flowering under glass, but it does not 
necessarily follow that the best for this purpose are most suit- 
able for bedding out during summer. Of scarlet varieties Paul 
Crampel is undoubtedly the most popular bedding Pelargonium 
of the present day ; its growth is good and the flower trusses 
are large, while the blossoms are rarely affected by the weather. 
Other bright-coloured varieties, suitable for bedding, are Beauty, 
cerise ; Henry Jacoby, crimson ; King of Denmark, salmon ; King 
Edward VII., crimson ; Maxime Kovalevsky, orange-salmon ; Salmon 
Paul Crampel, salmon ; West Brighton Gem, scarlet ; and Vesuvius, 
scarlet. Good pinks for this purpose are : Constance, Henry Compton, 
and Mrs. Robert Hayes. The best whites include Queen of the 
Belgians and Snowdrop. 

Many varieties are grown not for the sake of their flowers but 
for their ornamental leaves. Though less popular than they were 
a generation ago, these are still used for bedding. Of those of which 
the green leaves are edged with white, the most useful are Bijou, 
Dandy, Flower of Spring, and Madame Salleroi ; the last-named, 
a dwarf compact variety, with roundish leaves, never flowers, and 
is much used as an edging. Varieties with yellow or yellowish leaves 
are : Creed's Seedhng, Crystal Palace Gem, Robert Fish, and Verona. 
Bronze-leaved varieties include : Bronze Queen, Her Majesty, Marechal 



PELARGONIUM 325 

MacMahon, and Swanley Bronze. The tricolor-leaved varieties, at 
one time exceedingly popular, are now not much grown, as they do 
not thrive satisfactorily during unfavourable summers ; still, they 
are admired by some. Good varieties are : Brilliant, Dolly Varden, 
Empress of India, Enchantress, Lass o' Gowrie, Macbeth, Mrs. Turner, 
and Mrs. Pollock. A variety that always arouses interest is known 
as Black Vesuvius : it is of dwarf, compact habit, with dark, almost 
black, leaves and scarlet flowers. As an edging to light-coloured 
varieties it is very effective. 

Ivy-leaved Pelargoniums increase in popularity year by year ; 
owing to their free, drooping growth, they are much used for balconies, 
window-boxes, vases, etc., as well as for bedding out. Large pyramids 
or standards are often seen, and they can be used as an edging to 
beds, the growths then being pegged down. There are many varieties, 
but the three best are : Galilee, soft pink ; Madame Crousse, silvery- 
pink ; and Souvenir de Charles Turner, rich reddish-rose. Others 
that may be grown for the sake of variety or to suit individual tastes 
are : Beauty of Castle Hill, soft rose ; Corden's Glory, scarlet ; Col. 
Baden Powell, dehcate mauve ; Girofiee, magenta-purple ; Jeanne 
d'Arc, white ; Murillo, dark crimson ; and Willy, scarlet. 

Practically all the above-named Pelargoniums require the same 
treatment. The only difference is that the tricolor-leaved varieties 
are more delicate than the others, and require to be kept in a dry, 
airy greenhouse during winter ; it is, of course, absolutely necessary 
that all are kept safe from frost. To grow Pelargoniums for summer 
bedding, the best time to take cuttings is during the first three weeks 
of August. At that time the cuttings root readily out-of-doors, whereas 
a month later success in this respect is far less certain. In taking 
the cuttings, select those that will be the least missed, so that the 
general appearance of the flower bed is not spoilt. They should be 
3 or 4 inches long and cut off below a joint and the bottom leaf removed. 
If the cuttings are very succulent they may with advantage be laid 
out to dry for a few hours before being inserted. If put in shallow 
boxes these should be drained by boring holes in the bottom and 
covering them with crocks. Loam, leaf-mould, and sand form suit- 
able soil ; it must be pressed down moderately firmly, and the cut- 
tings put 2 to 3 inches apart. Keep the soil only slightly moist. The 
boxes may then be placed on a hard surface out-of-doors in a sunny 
spot ; if put on soil, worms will enter and disturb the cuttings. In 
October the boxes must be taken under glass, either in the green- 
house or in a frame. While an unheated frame, if covered with 
mats, will keep out a certain amount of frost, Pelargoniums cannot 



326 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

be safely wintered without fire heat, damp as well as frost being a 
great enemy. Wlaether the cuttings, when rooted, are potted singly 
either in autumn or spring will depend upon the space available, 
though those potted in autumn will, of course, make the best plants. 
Throughout the winter a light, airy position in the greenhouse is 
best for them. 

Pennlsetum. — These Grasses (Natural Order Gramineae), which 
are natives of the warmer regions of the globe, contain few kinds of 
any ornamental value ; the only one in general cultivation is a very 
pretty annual Grass, Pennisetum longistylum, which grows about 
i8 inches high, and bears fluffy purplish flower spikes from 4 to 6 
inches long. It is a native of Abyssinia. Seeds may be sown in 
spring in ordinary garden soil. 

Pennyroyal. — {See Mentha Pulegium.) 

Pentstemon. — There are many species of Pentstemon in cultivation 
but these are far outnumbered by the garden varieties ; in fact, as 
with the Snapdragon, it is almost useless to keep them separate, as 
splendid kinds can be raised from seed. Still, most dealers have a 
few of the very best of their own raising, which are named and kept 
separate and increased by cuttings. The Pentstemons belong to the 
Snapdragon family (Scrophulariaceae) , and are natives of North 
America. Of the true species the following may be mentioned : 
acuminatus, lilac-purple, July to September, 12 inches ; barbatus, 
scarlet, summer, 3 to 4 feet ; caeruleus, blue, July and August, 12 
inches ; Coboea, large inflated purple flowers, July and August, 
18 inches ; confertus, pale yellow, summer, 12 inches ; cyananthus, 
purple and blue, July and August, 12 inches ; glaber, blue, July to 
September, 12 inches ; heterophyllus, light blue, July to September, 
18 inches ; laevigatus, white, June to August, 2 feet ; ovatus, blue, 
July to September, 2 feet ; spectabihs, blue, summer, 2 feet ; and 
Watsonii, deep purple, July to September, 9 inches. 

Of late years a small-flowered race of garden varieties have be- 
come general favourites. They are known as the " Gem " class, 
are dwarfer than the other kinds, and of bushy habit, while the 
flowers are borne in great profusion throughout the greater part of 
the summer. Botanists tell us these are but forms of Pentstemon 
Menziesii, a native of North- West America. At all events, they are 
a charming addition to flowering plants for the outdoor garden in 
summer. The varieties are : Myddleton Gem, carmine-pink, with 
white throat ; Newbury Gem, of which there are pink, scarlet, and 
white forms ; and Southgate Gem, of which the flowers are larger 
than those of Newbury Gem. 



PERILLA 



327 



The florists' varieties almost rival the Foxglove in size of bloom, 
and the flowers are in long bold spikes ; all shades of scarlet-pink, 
carmine, and purple are represented ; the scarlet varieties with white 
throat are remarkably showy. These Pentstemons are seen to great 
advantage in the herbaceous border, especially where it is backed 
by shrubs, or when planted in a bed by themselves. 

Pentstemons will thrive in ordinary garden soil, but are none too 
hardy during a severe winter, for which reason the choicer kinds are 
often raised from cuttings in autumn, and wintered in a frame. The 
best cuttings are furnished by plants that have not been allowed to 
flower, as they produce shoots more freely. As soon as these are 
about 2^ inches long they are taken off and inserted in pots of sandy 
soil and placed in a frame. There they will soon root, and with a 
little protection in severe weather will be safe throughout winter. 
Seed sown in the greenhouse in February will yield plants that may 
be safely planted out in June to flower during the summer. Though 
in some places there is a risk in leaving the choicer kinds of Pent- 
stemon out during the winter months, this is not everywhere the 
case. The most favourable conditions are a rather light, well-drained 
soil, and a sunny position. Heavy 
clayey ground is not so suitable. 

Perl I la. — Only one member of this 
genus is valuable from a decorative 
standpoint. This is known generally as 
Perilla nankinensis, but by botanists it 
is referred to as Perilla ocymoides crispa. 
It belongs to the Sage family (Labia- 
tae), and is native of China. The 
flowers are of no value, but the dark 
blackish-purple leaves are very effective 
in association with other plants in beds 
in the flower garden. It can be readily 
raised from seeds sown in the green- 
house in February or March. The 
young plants make rapid progress, both 
when under glass and in summer when 
planted out. In certain flower bed de- 
signs it is necessary to continue " stop- 
ping " the growths to keep the plants 
to the required height. 

Periploca graeca is a vigorous 
climbing plant belonging to the Natural the pentstemon 




328 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Order Asclepiadaceae. It is a native of South-East Europe and 
the Orient, and has long been known in our gardens. Planted in 
ordinary garden soil it grows rapidly, forming long slender shoots, 
clothed with dark green ovate leaves, and bearing purplish flowers 
in July. It should be planted against a wall, trellis, or pergola, 
but is not suitable for cold districts. It may be increased by cuttings 
of young shoots inserted in sandy soil in a warm frame during summer, 
and any necessary pruning should be attended to in spring. This 
usually takes the form of shortening branches which are outgrowing 
their space. 

Periwinkle. — {See ViNCA.) 

Pernettya mucronata is a very beautiful little bush, belonging 
to the Heather family (Ericaceae), which has three distinct uses : 
first, its leaves are evergreen ; secondly, the white flowers are decidedly 
pretty in May ; and lastly, the berries are ornamental through autumn 
and part of the winter. It is a native of the Magellanic region, whence 
it was introduced in 1828. As seen in our gardens, it forms a spread- 
ing bush 12 inches to nearly 3 feet in height, increasing in width by 
means of underground stems ; the tiny ovate leaves are scarcely 
more than -^ inch long, and the flowers are borne from their axils. 
The fruits vary considerably in size and colouring, the larger ones 
being ^ inch in diameter, and the colour varying from white 
to pink, purple, and deep red. A number of well-marked forms 
have been given varietal names, denoting the colour of the berries ; 
very often the fruits are in such profusion as to make it necessary 
to stake the branches. Plant in moist soil free from lime, but the 
ground must not be waterlogged. Propagation is by division, layers, 
cuttings, or seeds, and pruning is limited to the removal of a few 
of the older branches now and then, the work being done in spring. 

Perovskia atriplicifolia. — A half-shrubby plant belonging to 
the Sage family (Labiatae), and native of the Himalaya ; it has 
only come into prominence within recent years. It forms a shapely 
bush from 3 to 4 feet in height, with greyish leaves and spikes of 
lavender-blue flowers, at their best in July and August. Seen in a 
mass, it is remarkably effective. The Perovskia can be propagated by 
division when dormant, or by cuttings of the young shoots when they 
are about 3 inches long, in spring, inserted in a frame or hand-light. 
Light, well-drained soil and a sunny spot provide suitable conditions. 

Peruvian Lily.— (S^e Alstroemeria.) 

Petasites {Butter Burr). — The best-known plant of this group 
(Natural Order Compositae) is the Winter Heliotrope (Petasites 
fragrans), with white, sweet-scented flowers in February. It must, 



PETUNIA 329 

however, be planted sparingly, for, once established, it is a terrible 
weed, being as difficult to get rid of as its near relative, the Coltsfoot. 
In the wild garden, however, a place may often be found for it. Two 
others, namely, the European Butter Burr (Petasites vulgaris) and 
the Japanese (Petasites japonica), are more noteworthy for the sake 
of their large roundish leaves. They are seen to the best advantage 
in the bog garden, though they will thrive under drier conditions. 

Petunia. — The many forms of Petunia (which belongs to the 
Potato family, Solanaceae) that we have now in our gardens have 
all originated from Petunia nyctaginiflora and violacea, both natives 
of South America. From these a beautiful race of flowering plants 
has been obtained, which are of great value in the outdoor garden 
in summer. Though perennials, and at one time increased largely 
by cuttings, they are generally grown as annuals, from seed sown in 
February, in a warm greenhouse. If the young plants are trans- 
ferred to pans or boxes and afterwards potted singly, they will be 
well established by bedding-out time. The double-flowered kinds, 
though much used for the greenhouse, are less suitable for out- 
of-door planting than the single ones, which are less affected by 
wind and rain. Some of the single ones are very large, with the edges 
crisped and undulated ; in colour, too, they vary greatly, but generally 
the self-coloured crimson, rose, and purple sorts are most admired. 
There is also a race of small-flowered kinds, of which Countess of 
Ellesmere is an example ; this bears a profusion of rose and white 
flowers throughout the season. The very double kinds are propa- 
gated from cuttings formed from the young shoots in spring. They 
are dibbled in pots of sandy soil, and placed in a close propagating 
case in the greenhouse, and will soon root. 

Phacelia. — The Phacelias, which belong to the Natural Order 
Hydrophyllaceae, and are natives of California, are pretty flowering 
annuals, with chiefly blue blossoms. By far the best known is Phacelia 
campanularia, with bell-shaped flowers of intense blue ; it is of 
somewhat spreading growth, and reaches a height of about 9 inches. 
Others are : divaricata, violet, 12 inches ; Menziesii, purple, 12 inches ; 
Parryii, violet, 9 inches ; tanacetifoHa, rose, 2 feet ; viscida (also 
known as Eutoca viscida), intense blue, 9 inches ; and Whitlavia 
(also known as Whitlavia grandiflora), violet, 12 inches. The Phacelias 
thrive in any fairly good garden soil, but, like most Cahfornian 
annuals, prefer a warm, sunny spot. The young plants do not trans- 
plant well, hence the seed is best sown in the open border in April, 
where the plants are to flower ; they should be thinned to about 
6 inches apart; 



330 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Phalaris.— By far the best known of this group of Grasses (Natural 
Order Gramineae) is the Ribbon Grass, or Gardener's Garter, Phalaris 
arundinacea variegata. It grows about 2 feet high, and the grace- 
fully recurving leaves are freely striped with white. It is a familiar 
object in cottage gardens, and sprays of it form a part of country 
nosegays. It will thrive in almost any soil, and can be readily in- 
creased by division when dormant. Another well-known kind is 
canariensis, which furnishes the canary seed so much appreciated 
by those who keep cage birds ; it is of annual duration, the pretty 
inflorescence being in a globe-Hke head. 

Pheasant's Eye. — {See Adonis.) 

Phellodendron — The members of this group (Natural Order 
Rutaceae) form small ornamental trees suitable for planting on lawns. 
The two kinds obtainable are amurense, from Amurland, and japonicum, 
from Japan. Their beauty centres in the large pinnate leaves and 
clusters of black fruit, the flowers being greenish, and not easily seen. 
They must be given deep loamy soil, and if the natural soil of the 
vicinity be poor, several loads of better material should be provided 
at planting time. A sunny position is advisable. Propagation is 
by seeds, and pruning should take the form of training the leading 
shoot in an upward direction and reducing side growths at the same 
time. This is only necessary whilst the trees are young. 

Philadelphus {Mock Orange). — This group (Natural Order Saxi- 
fragaceae) is made up of a number of ornamental shrubs, many of 
which have fragrant flowers, and all are showy. They are natives of 
Asia and North America, and exhibit considerable diversity of growth, 
the greatest extremes being noticeable between grandiflorus, a bush 
15 to 20 feet high and as far through, native of the Southern United 
States, and microphyllus, from Colorado, which scarcely attains a 
height of 3 feet. This little shrub, in conjunction with the common 
Asiatic Mock Orange (coronarius), has, however, exerted a consider- 
able influence upon the whole race, for quite a new type of shrub has 
been evolved. Not only are the hybrids distinct in flower and growth, 
but they require different cultural treatment. The species or wild 
types, as a rule, thrive most satisfactorily in rich loamy soil, and 
pruning is hmited to an occasional thinning of the branches after 
flowering, although bushes may be left unpruned for many years. 
But the hybrids (i.e. those raised by florists) must be pruned every 
year if the most satisfactory results are desired. As soon as the 
flowers fade, cut the flowering branches back to the point from which 
vigorous young shoots are springing. In many cases they may be 
cut back almost to the ground line. During summer, shoots 2 to 3 feet 




THE MOCK ORANGE 
(PHILADELPHUS CORONARIUS) 





THE ICELAND POPPY (PAPAVER 
NUDICAULE) 




FLOWERS OF SINGLE PYRETHRUM 
PINK PEARL 






A CURIOUS HARDY GRASS 
(PENNISETUM LONGISTYLUM 



PHILLYREA 331 

long will be formed, which at the proper time — the following June — 
will bloom from end to end. Like the stronger-growing sorts, the}' 
require rich loamj^ soil, and are improved by a yearly surface dressing 
of well-decayed manure. Propagation may be carried out by means 
of green cuttings inserted in sandy soil in a warm and closed frame 
in summer, or by cuttings of ripened growths inserted out-of-doors 
in autumn. The former method is the better one. 

A selection of hybrids (those raised in gardens by cross fertilisation ) 
includes the following : Lemoinei is typical of this group : if left 
unpruned, it forms a dense bush 3 to 4 feet high, but is less beautiful 
and flowers less freely than pruned plants ; the var. erectus is better 
than the type, its fragrant flowers are about i inch across. Other 
good ones are : Avalanche, very large flowers ; Boule d 'Argent, double ; 
Fantasie, a very fine kind ; Candelabre ; purpureo-maculatus, white 
flowers with purple centre ; Pavilion Blanc, flowers large and white ; 
Rosace, flowers double, 2 to 3 inches in diameter ; Virginal, flowers 
double. 

Among the best species or wild types are : coronarius, native of 
Asia, often called Syringa or Mock Orange, a vigorous bush, 10 to 15 
feet high, with a profusion of creamy-white flowers in June, there 
are many varieties, some with double flowers and one with yellow 
foliage. Grandiflorus is a very beautiful and vigorous bush, the flowers 
are between 2 and 3 inches across, pure white, and less fragrant than 
those of the common Mock Orange, the vars. floribundus and laxus 
are more free-flowering than the type. Lewisii is a wide-spreading, 
shapely, free-flowering kind from Western North America ; micro- 
phyllus is a charming little bushy kind, with small greyish leaves 
and very fragrant white flowers ; mexicanus is the most tender kind, 
and is only suitable for the warmer counties, its white flowers are 
large and shapely. 

Phillyrea.— Evergreen bushes, belonging to the Natural Order 
Oleaceae, chiefly natives of the Mediterranean region ; the majority 
have long been known in our gardens. Phillyrea decora, from 
Lazistan, is, however, of more recent introduction, although it has 
been known for upwards of twenty-five years ; it was at one time 
known as Vilmoriniana, and in its early years obtained a bad reputa- 
tion, for plants had an unaccountable way of dying when apparently 
in good health a few days before ; this was eventually found out to 
be due to grafting upon stocks of Privet. Now that it is grown from 
cuttings and from seeds it gives excellent results. Mature bushes 
are 4 to 5 feet high, and sometimes as much as 10 feet across ; the 
dark green leaves are like those of the Bay in shape, and the white 



332 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

flowers, followed by dark fruits, are produced from their axils. Phillyrea 
angustifolia from the Mediterranean region has very narrow leaves 
about 2 inches long and its var. rosmarinifolia has still smaller leaves ; 
both form shapely bushes at least 5 feet high. Then there are two 
other species, latifolia and media, each of which claims several 
varieties ; they grow into fine bushes or small trees up to 18 or 20 feet 
high. Plant in ordinary, fairly good garden soil, increase by 
means of cuttings of young shoots inserted in sandy soil in a closed 
frame in July, and prune in summer, the pruning being directed 
towards shaping the bushes. 

Phlomis. — The different species of Phlomis (Natural Order 
Labiatae) occur principally in Southern Europe and Asia Minor. 
They are of shrubby or sub-shrubby character, and bear a certain 
amount of resemblance to the common Sage. The most pronounced 
shrubbj'^ kind is Phlomis fruticosa, known popularly as the Jerusalem 
Sage. This forms a sturdy bush 4 to 6 feet in height, clothed with 
rough greyish leaves, and bears spikes of bright yellow flowers dis- 
posed in whorls throughout the summer months. Other species are : 
cashmeriana, pale lilac, 2 feet ; Russelliana, golden-yellow, 3 feet ; 
and samia, yellow, 3 feet. All flower during the summer months. 
They prefer a light, well-drained soil and full exposure to sunshine. 
Some may be increased by division, while cuttings of the young shoots 
may also be rooted if taken when from 3 to 4 inches long and protected 
by a frame or handlight. 

Phlox. — ^The Phloxes (Natural Order Polemoniaceae) may be 
divided into three distinct sections: (i) the dwarf alpine kinds; 
(2) those of annual duration, the best known example of which is 
Phlox Drummondii ; and lastly, those usually referred to as herba- 
ceous Phlox, among the finest of all border flowers in August and 
September. 

Herbaceous Phloxes show a wide range of colour, from white, 
through various shades of pink, salmon, violet, and scarlet. They 
will thrive in any deep garden soil, but prefer a trenched border of 
sandy loam, with which well-decayed manure has been mixed. Pro- 
pagation is by division and by cuttings. Division must be carried 
out in early autumn or spring, and if carefully done will result in 
good well-rooted plants. If possible, each portion should have three 
shoots, and in this way flowering plants can be obtained the first 
season. Cuttings may be taken in spring as soon as the young shoots 
are about 3 inches in length ; they are twisted off so that the base 
of the shoot is detached also. If dibbled in pots of sandy soil placed 
in a frame they will soon form roots. The transplantation of estab- 



PHLOX 333 

lished plants should be carried out as soon as possible in autumn 
after the flowers have faded. 

Some of the best varieties are : Brilliant, carmine-rose ; Coqueli- 
cot, orange-red ; Elizabeth Campbell, salmon-pink ; Etna, orange- 
red ; Eugene DanzanvilHers, lilac-rose ; G. A. Strohlein, orange- 
red ; General von Heutz, salmon-red ; Iris, purplish-blue ; Le Mahdi, 
violet-blue ; Pantheon, pink ; Paul Bert, lilac and white ; Salmonea, 
salmon-rose ; Selma, pink ; Tapis Blanc, white, dwarf ; William 
Ramsay, purple ; and Wonder, white with rose flush, dwarf. 

Phlox Drummondii, which is practically the only annual species, 
is among the best annual flowers. From the typical kind, of which 
the blossoms are red, varieties have now been obtained varying in 
colour from white to deep crimson and purple, through many in- 
termediate shades. They vary in height from 12 to 18 inches. Annual 
Phloxes are much appreciated in the outdoor garden in summer, 
and if the old flowers are cut off they produce a succession of bloom 
longer than many annuals. The taller kinds may, if desired, be 
pegged down. Seed of Phlox Drummondii is usually sown under 
glass in early spring for the first display of blossoms ; the plants will, 
however, flower finely if sown out-of-doors in April. 

The dwarf Phloxes are among the showiest of rock garden flowers, 
while some of them are used largely for spring bedding. They form 
masses of spreading evergreen shoots, and in spring yield their blossoms 
in profusion, often to such a degree that the leaves are hidden. The 
dwarf Phloxes are natives of hilly districts in some of the States of 
North America. Chief favourite among them is the Moss Pink 
(Phlox subulata), of which there are several charming varieties, as, 
for example, Vivid, rose ; G. F. Wilson, mauve ; Fairy, lilac ; The 
Bride and Nelsoni, white ; and Little Dot, white with blue centre. 
The typical plant, Phlox subulata, forms a compact leafy tuft, and 
in April and May bears pink blossom. Phlox amoena, which bears 
rose-coloured flowers, is another pretty trailing kind and one that 
blooms freely. Of a different type is Phlox divaricata, which reaches 
a height of about 12 inches, and bears pale lilac-blue flowers ; the 
var. Laphami is an improved form. Others are Phlox procumbens, 
lilac ; ovata, rose-purple ; and reptans or verna, the creeping Phlox, 
with comparatively large rose-coloured blooms. Phlox stellaria, 
white, and its lilac-coloured var. lilacina, are vigorous, and soon form 
large masses which blossom profusely in early summer. 

Some care is needed in the cultivation of the dwarf Phloxes if 
they are to give of their best, and the conditions most likely to ensure 
success are a fairly cool position, such, for example, as one facing 



334 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

west, thorough drainage, and a soil consisting of loam with which 
leaf-soil and grit are mixed. They look best when planted at the 
top of a M'all or rock ledge down the face of which the shoots may 
trail. Some of them, notably the white vars. Nelsoni and The Bride, 
are apt to die off during a wet winter, and for this reason are benefited 
by the protection of a pane of glass raised a few inches above them. 
If the plants become straggling and bare in the centre they lose much 
of their attractiveness, but this may usually be obviated by cutting 
back the growths as soon as the flowers have faded, at the same 
time working a top-dressing of gritty compost among the shoots. 
Phlox reptans is increased by pegging down the trailing shoots in 
summer ; when they are well rooted the shoots may be cut off and 
transplanted. The other kinds are propagated by cuttings inserted 
in sandy soil in a frame in June. Old plants that have lost their 
compactness may be taken up at the same season and divided, the 
portions being planted in well-prepared gritty soil in partial shade, 
there to remain until early autumn, when they can be planted per- 
manently. 

Phormium {New Zealand Flax). — A noble plant, belonging to 
the Lily family (Liliaceae), that forms a stout tuft of strap-shaped 
leaves from 4 to 6 feet long. These contain a strong fibre, which 
is of considerable commercial value. As an ornamental plant in 
moist soil near water it can be recommended. There is a variety 
with leaves of bronze-purple tint, and two or three variegated sorts. 
While Phormium tenax will hold its own in many parts of the country, 
the variegated kinds are more tender, and need protection from 
frost. Loamy soil is suitable. Increase is usually by division ; seeds, 
too, sometimes ripen, and these should be sown as soon as possible 
in pots of loam, leaf-mould, and sand placed in a greenhouse. 

Photinia serrulata is the most important species of this group 
of shrubs (Natural Order Rosaceae), so far as this country is con- 
cerned. It is a fine evergreen bush or small tree, native of China, 
with large, oblong leaves resembling those of a Laurel, but more 
refined. In spring, when the young leaves are developing, they are 
of a pretty reddish tint, and are attended by red bracts. Later on, 
towards June, the white flowers appear. Unfortunately it is too 
tender for borders except in the milder counties, and it is seen at 
its best in Devonshire, Cornwall, and Ireland. There, planted in 
loamy soil, it forms a handsome lawn specimen, 12 or 18 feet high. 
About London it grows well, but is sometimes injured by frost. 
Elsewhere it is best on a wall. Systematic pruning is unnecessary, 
but a little shaping may be done during summer when required. 




A HANDSOME SPRUCE FIR (PICEA PUNGENS GLAUCA) 



PHRAGMITES COMMUNIS AUREUS 335 

Increase b}^ seeds or layers. Other species are Benthamiana, from 
China, and variabiHs, from China and Japan. The last-named is the 
hardiest of the three. 

Phragmites communis aureus. — A stately Reed (Natural 
Order Gramineae), which reaches a height of about 5 feet, and of 
which the leaves are prettily marked with yellow. It is a very effec- 
tive plant for bog or waterside planting, and can be readily increased 
by division. 

Phygelius capensis {Cape Figworl). — A striking, sparely-branched 
■plant belonging to the Snapdragon family (Scrophulariaceae) that 
will reach a height of 4 to 5 feet. The tube-shaped flowers, which 
are produced in whorls from the upper part of the plant, are of bright 
scarlet colour and open in late summer and early autumn. This 
Phygelius is a native of South Africa, and needs as warm a spot as 
possible, such as a position at the foot of a south wall. It can be 
readily increased by division in early spring. 

Phyllocladus, a small class of Conifers (Natural Order Coniferae) 
includes some very curious and interesting shrubs or small trees, 
which are only available for outdoor planting in the mildest parts of 
the country. They require moist yet well-drained soil, a clear and 
moist atmosphere, and a mild, equable temperature. One or two 
species have been noted in good condition in gardens in the vicinity 
of Penzance where the soil is very fertile, and made up largely of 
humus and disintegrated granite. Propagation may be effected by 
means of cuttings inserted in sandy soil in a close frame in summer, 
and pruning is limited to shaping the plants. Phyllocladus rhom- 
boidalis, the Adventure Bay Pine, from Tasmania, and trichomanoides, 
axe sometimes grown. 

Phyllostachys (Bamboo) belongs to the Natural Order Gra- 
mineae, and is one of the two most important groups of hardy Bam- 
boos. They may be distinguished from Arundinaria and Bambusa 
by their glossy, smooth, and shining stems, and by the side branches 
always being in groups of three, as a rule two large ones and one 
very small. The small one is usually in the centre and sometimes 
falls away early in life. They also differ from the other Bamboos 
by casting their leaf or stem sheaths very early in life, whereas these 
may be noted on Arundinaria for a considerable period, sometimes 
for more than a year. The cultural requirements are the same as for 
Arundinaria in every particular. The culms or stems are generally 
very close together, and long running rhizomes are not so prevalent 
as in Arundinaria. This causes the clumps to become very dense, 
and it is necessary to remove the old canes to the ground line. As 



330 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

a rule, plants die after flowering, but it is said that the death of these 
and other Bamboos may be prevented by cutting all the canes down 
to the ground line when the first sign of flowering is noticed. Sub- 
sequent shoots are said to show no signs of flowering. We cannot, 
however, vouch for the accuracy of this. 

The chief kinds are : aurea, native of Japan, a rather erect-growing 
kind, 12 or 15 feet high, with golden stems ; Castillonis, sometimes 
classed as a variety of Quilioi, is a Japanese plant 12 feet or more 
high, with occasionally variegated leaves and golden stems, the 
flattened parts of which are bright green, Fastuosa, although usually 
classed as a Phyllostachys, is correctly an Arundinaria, it is one of 
the hardiest and most decorative of all hardy Bamboos ; its erect, 
handsome plumose stems rise to a height of 20 feet or more, and 
the leaves keep their colour better than those of any other species. 
Flexuosa, from North China, is a handsome kind with graceful plumose 
branches, and the same may be said of the Japanese Henonis. Nigra 
is a vigorous, graceful kind with dark brown or almost black canes ; 
the var. punctata has mottled canes, both kinds, with the var. Boryana, 
are very useful Japanese Bamboos. Ruscifolia is a curious dwarf 
kind with short wide leaves, it rarely exceeds 2 feet in height ; viridi- 
glaucescens, from China, is one of the hardiest species, it grows 15 feet 
or more high, and is of graceful outline. 

Physalis {Winter Cherry). — The plants of this group (Natural 
Order Solanaceae) are remarkable for the large bladder-hke calyces 
that contain the fruits and which, when ripe, are of bright orange- 
red colour. WTien cut and dried they are much used for indoor 
decoration in winter. The best are : Bunyardii and Franchetii. 
They thrive in a sunny spot in any good garden soil, and can be 
increased to any extent by means of seeds or by division carried out 
in early spring. 

Physostegia virginiana. — A vigorous-growing North American 
herbaceous perennial belonging to the Sage family (Labiatae), 3 feet 
high, with erect stems, terminated by spikes of pink flowers from 
July until autumn, which are very useful for cutting. There is a 
white variety alba, and another, speciosa, taller than the type. All 
thrive in ordinary garden soil, and can be increased by division in 
early spring. 

Phyteuma (Rampion). — Chiefly hardy herbaceous perennials, 
members of the Bellflower family (Campanulaceae), natives of the 
Mediterranean region and Asia Minor. While they are nearly related 
to the Campanulas, the flowers are quite different, being borne in 
curiously crowded heads on comparatively long stalks. They are 



PHYTOLACCA DECANDRA 



337 



fitted for planting in a sunny part of the rock garden in gritty soil, 
where they flower from June to August. The best are : anthericoides, 
slaty-blue, 9 inches ; canescens, lilac-blue, 12 inches ; comosa, deep 
blue, tipped white, 3 inches ; orbiculare, deep blue, 12 inches ; and 
Scheuchzeri, purplish-blue, 12 inches. They are propagated by means 
of division, carried out in spring, or by seeds sown under glass at the 
same season. 

Phytolacca decandra 
(Poke Weed). — This is the only 
member of this group (Natural 
Order Phytolaccaceae) that can 
be looked upon as ornamental, 
and it is certainly a striking 
object in the herbaceous border 
towards the end of the sum- 
mer and in early autumn. It 
produces a stout stem from 
4 to 8 feet in height, and 
branches freely from the upper 
portion. The little white 
flowers are borne in long 
racemes, and are succeeded 
by closely packed dark purple 
berries, the weight of which 
causes the clusters to droop. 
A well-grown plant laden with 
berries is very striking. This 
Phytolacca is readily raised 
from seeds sown in a sheltered 
border in spring. The plant is 
poisonous. 

Picea {Spruce). — This group of Conifers (Natural Order Coniferae) 
includes all the trees which are popularly termed Spruces. Several 
of them are very important timber trees. Thus, Picea excelsa, the 
Common Spruce, supplies white deal, and is the most important 
European pulp wood. Picea alba is the great pulp wood of Eastern 
North America, in addition to being used for the same purposes as 
our white deal ; whilst Western North America supplies another 
valuable kind in the Sitka or Tideland Spruce (Picea sitchensis). 
They may be distinguished from the Firs, or Abies, with which they 
are often confused, by the leaves being usually needle-like and sur- 
rounding the branches, and by the cones being pendulous and remain- 




THE V^^INTER CHERRY (Physalis) 



338 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

ing intact after shedding the seeds, those of the Abies being erect 
and falUng to pieces as soon as the seeds are ripe. The Spruces, as 
a rule, thrive in wet soil, and the Sitka Spruce has been found in- 
valuable for cold and wet bog land, thriving where even the Common 
Spruce fails to exist. It is also useful for planting near the sea, 
and may be used with the Austrian, Corsican, and Scots Pines 
for reclaiming sandy wastes and fixing sand dunes. Propagation of 
all the species is by seeds, and of the varieties by cuttings or by graft- 
ing upon stocks of their respective t5^es. The pruning of ornamental 
specimens takes the form of removing dead wood and rival leaders. 
Those grown for commercial purposes are planted close, and side 
branches are suppressed naturally. Several kinds of insects are 
troublesome at times. One, Chermes abietis, forms a Pine-apple- 
like gall on the branches, and another, a small greenish aphis, causes 
leaf-shedding. They may be destroyed by spraying the trees with 
paraffin emulsion during April, May, and June. 

Picea alba is a very hardy tree from Eastern North America, some- 
times from 60 to 100 feet high in a wild state, but often less than 
60 feet ; it does not grow very large here. Engelmanni is a British 
Columbian Spruce, and its var. glauca forms a handsome lawn tree. 
Excelsa, the Common Spruce, grows 130 feet high in Central Europe, 
less farther north, and is grown extensively as a forest tree in this 
country ; there are many dwarf, bushy forms, a few are : Clanbrasi- 
liana, compacta, diffusa, dumosa, pygmaea, and Remonti. Nigra is 
the Black Spruce of North America, it is grown here as an ornam.ental 
tree. Orientalis, from the Mountains of the Taurus and the Caucasus, 
is distinguished from the Common Spruce by its smaller leaves and 
neater leaf arrangement, both it and the common kind are grown 
largely for Christmas trees. 

Picea pungens, a native of Utah and California, is a handsome 
tree ; the var. glauca is known as the Blue Spruce by reason of its 
beautiful glaucous leaves ; Smithiana, often called Morinda, is an 
elegant Himalayan kind, with pendent branches and long leaves. 

Picea Omorica and sitchensis are included in the so-called Flat- 
leaved Spruces. The former is the Servian Spruce and an excellent, 
decorative, fast-growing tree ; and the other is from Western North 
America, where it extends along the coastline from Central Alaska 
to South California, often growing in brackish land. It is being 
planted extensively under forest conditions in this country. 

Picotee. — (See Dianthus.) 

PIcrasma quassioides is a decorative tree of middle height 
belonging to the Natural Order Simarubaceae, and having for one 



PIERIS 339 

of its allies the better-known Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus glandulosa). 
It is found wild over a considerable area in China, Japan, and the 
Himalaya, where it forms a wide-headed tree 35 to 45 feet high; Its 
attractions are its ornamental pinnate leaves which are up to 13 inches 
long ; its reddish-brown, mottled bark, and bluish fruits. This tree is 
sufficiently hardy to grow in many districts of the British Isles, and 
ought to be found as a lawn specimen more frequently than at present, 
for it thrives in loamy soil and can be increased by either seeds or 
cuttings. Young trees should be pruned to keep them shapely, the 
chief object being to maintain clear leaders. 

Pieris. — Although there are numerous species of Pieris, which 
belongs to the Heather family (Eriaceae), three kinds stand out so 
prominently that the others are hardly worth considering. The three 
most useful ones are : floribunda, from North America ; formosa, from 
the temperate Himalaya and China ; and japonica, from Japan. All 
are evergreen shrubs with white flowers. Pieris floribunda grows 
from 2 to 4 feet high, forming a dense bush with rather dull ovate 
leaves ; the flowers appear in upright panicles from the middle of 
March to early May. Pieris japonica is a more vigorous bush, but 
it does not grow much taller ; it is recognised by the handsome, 
glossy, dark green oblong leaves, 3 to 4 inches long, and by its large 
terminal pendent panicles of flowers borne between March and 
May. Both kinds are quite hardy. Pieris formosa is a larger-growing 
bush, sometimes approaching 15 feet in height ; it has large, hand- 
some, deep green leaves and dense upright panicles of flowers which 
appear during May and June. It is less hardy than the other two, 
and is only suitable for borders in the south and west counties of 
England, the western maritime counties of Scotland and for Ireland. 
A special attraction of this kind is in the bright reddish colour of the 
young leaves. The cultural requirements are similar to those of 
Rhododendrons, for they dislike lime and thrive most satisfactorily 
in moist, sandy soil containing peat. Propagation is by layers and 
by seeds, seedling plants being preferable, although growth is slow 
for a few years. Systematic pruning is unnecessary, but the flower 
heads should be removed as soon as the flowers fade. 

Pimpernel. — {See Anagallis.) 

Pine.— (S^e PiNUS.) 

Pingulcula {Bittter Wort). — Pretty little plants (Natural Order 
Lentibulaceae) with a rosette of leaves from which are produced 
flowers, on slender stalks, somewhat suggestive of those of a Violet. 
The whole plant is but a few inches high, and grows best in a moist 
spot among moss and low herbage. The flowers appear in May and 



340 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

June. The chief hardy kinds are : alpina, white ; grandiflora, violet- 
bkie ; and vulgaris, violet. 

Pink. — (See Dianthus.) 

Pink Hops. — {See Origanum.) 

Pinus {Pine). — A group of Conifers (Natural Order Coniferae) 
made up chiefly of evergreen trees, but a few kinds are of bushy 
growth: Many are well adapted for planting in dry, wind-swept 
regions, and are the best available trees for forming the first line of 
defence against wind from the sea. Moreover, they may be planted 
at higher elevations than any of the broad-leaved trees, with the 
exception of Common Birch. The dense-leaved kinds are useful for 
wind-breaks around gardens or fruit or flower farms, and may also 
be planted to block out unsightly objects. They are not, however, 
adapted for planting in or about large towns where the atmosphere 
is charged with smoke or chemical fumes. The Pines are widely dis- 
tributed through Europe, Asia Minor, Asia (from Siberia to the Hima- 
laya, one or two kinds being found south of the Himalaya), Japan, 
North America, and the Canary Islands. Moreover, they have been 
planted largely in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. Possess- 
ing valuable economic properties, the timber of a number of species 
is more largely used for general building purposes than that of any 
other group of trees. Thus the Common Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris), 
a native of Siberia and Northern Europe, including the British Isles, 
is the most important building timber of Northern Europe, where it is 
known as redwood, red deal, yello\y deal, etc. Then the well-known 
Pitch Pine of the Southern United States is the timber of Pinus palus- 
tris, and the white pine of North America is the wood of Pinus Strobus. 
The seeds of various kinds — e.g. Pinea, Cembra, edulis — are edible. 
Resin and turpentine are other important products of the wood of 
Pines, and France in particular benefits largely from her turpentine 
and resin industry which has developed through planting waste and 
continually shifting sand dunes in Western France. 

Many kinds of Pines are known, and they are divided into three 
well-marked groups by the way in which the long needle-like leaves 
are arranged in twos, threes, or fives ; in one case, however, they 
are borne singly. It is not within the scope of this work to indicate 
the nice distinctions between the various species, but the student 
will find them clearly defined in various works upon Conifers. 

Pines must be placed in permanent positions while quite small, 
particularly if they are to be subjected to considerable exposure. As 
a rule, it is better to place the trees permanently when between i and 
2 feet high, those 3 or 4 feet taller often transplanting badly. As a 



PINUS 341 

rule, a plant i| feet high put in at the same time as another 5 feet 
in height will have outgrown the latter one at the end of five years. 
Propagation of all species and well-marked varieties is by seeds and 
of other kinds by grafting upon stocks of their respective types. 
Pruning is directed towards shaping trees which are becoming un- 
shapely. The work may be done in late autumn. Pines are useful 
for decorative specimens as well as for forest planting. 

In the following kinds the leaves are in twos or threes : Pinus 
Bungeana, the Lace-bark Pine of China, is distinct by reason of its 
bright green leaves and the way in which the bark is shed each year 
in thin flakes, a rather rare tree suitable for lawns. Coulteri is a native 
of California, and is grown as an ornamental tree for its long hand- 
some greyish leaves, sometimes more than 9 inches in length ; its 
remarkable cones are sometimes produced here, they are 9 to 12 inches 
long, thick, woody, and armed with strong curved spines ; densi- 
flora is a Japanese species somewhat similar to our Common Scots 
Pine. 

Pinus insignis, the Monterey Pine, is a native of California ; its 
leaves are a brighter green than those of most other Pines, and they 
are in groups of three. Although not very hardy, it thrives amazingly 
in the south and west maritime counties, where the rings of annual 
growth are often from | to | inch apart. It is an excellent wind- 
break, and stands exposure to sea air. Pinus Laricio is known as 
the Corsican Pine. It is found in Southern Europe and the Taurus 
Mountains, and is planted widely in this country ; growing very 
rapidly, it gives good results in poor sandy soil. The var. nigricans 
is the Austrian Pine, the best of all wind-breaks in this country. It 
may be planted on sand dunes just above high-water mark. Both 
trees have very dark foliage and a sombre appearance. Montana 
is found as a bush in the European Alps ; it is useful for massing on 
dry banks in garden or park ; muricata, a Californian tree, is re- 
markable for the length of time the cones remain upon the branches, 
sometimes thirty years or more. 

Pinus Pinaster, the Cluster or Maritime Pine, may be planted 
near the sea in the south and west, also inland ; it has showy red- 
brown bark ; Pinea is the Stone Pine or Umbrella Pine of Southern 
Europe, a flat-topped, ornamental tree often used in gardens. 

pinus sylvestris, the Scots Pine, is a native tree, and the remains 
of several natural forests are still to be found in the Highlands of 
Scotland ; it frequently grows between 80 and no feet in height, 
that height being exceeded by 20 or 30 feet in some European forests. 
Standing considerable exposure, it is often found on very bleak 



342 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

hillsides and close to the sea. There are several well-known varieties, 
one of which has golden leaves. • 

In the following Pines the leaves are in groups of live : Pinus 
Armandi is a new Chinese kind, with handsome glaucous-green leaves. 
Ayacahuite, the Hickory Pine of Mexico, forms a handsome specimen ; 
it is much like Pinus excelsa, from the Himalaya, but has downy 
shoots and recurved scales at the base of the cone. Cembra, the 
Swiss Stone Pine, is of close pyramidal habit and of decorative pre- 
sence ; excelsa, the Blue or Bhotan Pine, from the Himalaya, forms 
a fine tree with glaucous green leaves ; it is not adapted for wind- 
swept places ; Lambertiana is the Sugar Pine of California, suitable 
only for the milder counties ; Strobus, the Weymouth Pine, may be 
planted for ornament or profit, but is subject to insect attacks, which 
sometimes injure young trees. 

Piptanthus nepalensis, sometimes called the Himalayan Labur- 
num, belongs to the Pea family (Leguminosae). A native of the 
temperate Himalaya, it forms a large bush in the milder parts of 
the country, but requires the protection of a wall elsewhere. It, 
however, exhibits some curious differences of behaviour in various 
parts of the country. About London it thrives against a wall, but 
does little good in the open, yet at Forres, in North-East Scotland, 
it thrives as a bush in the open ground. Its principal attraction is 
in the golden Pea- shaped flowers in May and June. Give well-drained 
loamy soil, increase by means of seeds, and let pruning take the form 
of removing the unripened ends of the shoots in February. 

Pistacia is a group of large-growing shrubs or small trees (Natural 
Order Anacardiaceae), natives of the region bordering the Mediter- 
ranean Sea. Several species are sometimes found in gardens in the 
South of England with their near allies the Sumachs or Rhus. Some 
have economic properties, for a rare oil-hke resin is obtained from 
incisions made in the trunk of Pistacia Terebinthus in the Island of 
Scio, This substance is called Chian Turpentine, and is sometimes 
used in medicine and as a preservative for wine. This is one of the 
kinds that can be grown out-of-doors here. Others are Lentiscus, 
chinensis, and atlantica. Plant in a sunny position in light, well- 
drained loamy soil. Increase is by seeds or root cuttings, and 
systematic pruning is unnecessary. 

Pittosporum.— This is a useful family of evergreen shrubs or 
small trees, natives of New Zealand, Austraha, China, Japan, and 
other countries, belonging to the Natural Order Pittosporaceae. 
Many of them are hardy in the south-west counties of England, in 
Ireland, and in the West of Scotland, but about London even the 



PLAGIANTHUS LYALLII 343 

hardier kinds need the protection of a wall. Although usually grown 
for their evergreen leaves, the flowers of some kinds are showy, those 
of a few being fragrant. They thrive in ordinary garden soil, pre- 
ferring well-drained loam in which a little peat has been dug. Pro- 
pagation may be conducted by inserting cuttings of half-ripe shoots 
in a sandy compost in a close and warm frame in summer, or seeds 
may be sown. Pruning is directed towards shaping the bushes, and 
may be attended to during summer. The chief sorts are : crassi- 
folium, a New Zealand shrub with thick, oval, greyish-green leaves 
and claret-coloured flowers, which are borne singly from the leaf 
axils during late spring. Eugenioides is a big evergreen bush, bearing 
large inflorescences of pale yellowish, fragrant flowers during March 
and April ; in Cornwall it forms a bush 12 to 20 feet high, well furnished 
with branches from base to summit. Eriocarpum is a decorative kind 
from the Himalaya with yellow flowers ; nigricans, sometimes called 
tenuifohum, is recognised by its oval or ovate leaves and small dark 
purple or almost black flowers ; Tobira, from China and Japan, and 
undulatum from Australia, are useful evergreens with showy white, 
fragrant flowers. 

Plagianthus Lyallii, a New Zealand shrub, is the best known 
of its group, which belongs to the Mallow family (Malvaceae). It, 
however, is quite an uncommon shrub, although its great beauty 
warrants extended cultivation. Like most other New Zealand shrubs, 
its proper place is the gardens of the south-west counties and Ireland, 
but it is hardier than many and thrives both against a wall and in 
the open ground at Kew, a garden which is not particularly well 
placed for the cultivation of somewhat tender shrubs. It forms a 
bush 6 to 10 feet high, with a similar width ; the deciduous leaves are 
ovate and 4 or 5 inches long, whilst the flowers are white, i| inches 
across, and borne in clusters from the leaf axils of the young shoots 
in June or July. When in flower it is difficult to conceive a more 
charming plant. Cuttings may be rooted in summer, but they are 
rather difficult to deal with, and better results often follow layering 
the lower branches. No systematic pruning of bush plants is neces- 
sary, but those growing against walls must be pruned after flowering. 
Give rich loamy soil. Another useful species is Plagianthus betu- 
linus, from the same country ; it also has white flowers. 

Plane Tree. — {See Platanus.) 

Plantain Lily. — {See Funkia.) 

Platanus (Plane). — A small but important group of trees belong- 
ing to the Natural Order Platanaceae. There are three species, two 
natives of the Orient and the third of North America. Some people 



344 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

make a fourth species of Platanus accrifolia, popularly termed the 
London Plane, but it is considered to be of hybrid origin, though 
no data exist of its original appearance. All the Planes possess the 
peculiarity of shedding their bark each year, and upon that account 
they are excellent trees for towns. There is no better tree than 
Platanus acerifolia for towns, and its rude health and vigour under 
trying circumstances has caused it to be planted more freely than any 
other tree in and about London, hence the common name. It cannot, 
however, be used to the same extent in the North of England. The 
two kinds usually met with are acerifolia and orientalis, whilst cuneata 
is also grown sometimes. The true occidentaHs, the Buttonwood of 
North America, however, is rarely seen in this country, although 
acerifolia is often distributed under that name. It is not very hardy 
here. 

Platanus orientalis may be distinguished from the London Plane 
by its smaller and more finely-lobed leaves. Both grow into extremely 
ornamental trees of the largest size. When planted in narrow streets 
they have of necessity to be pruned hard back periodically ; they, 
however, withstand the somewhat barbarous treatment better than 
most trees. In gardens, pruning is directed towards keeping the 
leaders clear and removing lower branches when necessary. Ordinary 
garden soil suits, and propagation is often by cuttings of ripened wood 
placed out-of-doors in winter, or by layers. 

Platycodon grandiflorum [Chinese Bell Flower). — A very pretty 
and distinct Campanula-like plant (Natural Order Campanulaceae) 
with blue flowers ; indeed, by some authorities it is classed as Cam- 
panula. It is striking by reason of the curious balloon-shape of the 
buds ; it grows about i8 inches high, and flowers from July to Septem- 
ber. Distinct varieties are : alba, white ; autumnale, blue, vigorous ; 
Mariesii, deep blue, 12 inches ; and Mariesii alba, white. They are 
suitable for the rock garden or front of the herbaceous border, and 
need well-drained sandy loam. All can be increased by division 
carried out in spring. 

Platystemon californicus (Californian Poppy). — A very pretty 
hardy annual belonging to the Poppy family (Papaveraceae), that 
may be sown out-of-doors where it is to flower, either in autumn 
or spring. It is of spreading growth, and has prettily-cut, glaucous 
leaves. The flowers are about 2 inches across, and of pale yellow 
colour. The young plants should be thinned out about 4 to 5 inches 
apart. Ordinary garden soil and a sunny spot meet its needs. 

Plumbago [Lead Wort). — The chief hardy plants in this group 
(Natural Order Plumbaginaceae) are Plumbago europaea, a herbaceous 



POA 345 

perennial, native of the South of Europe, and bearing clusters of violet- 
rose blossoms in late summer ; it reaches a height of about 3 feet, 
while an annual, Plumbago micrantha, is dwarfer. Neither is par- 
ticularly ornamental, but Larpentae (known also as Ceratostigma 
plumbaginoides) is an attractive plant for a sunny spot in the rock 
garden in well-drained sandy loam ; the bunches of blue flowers 
appear at the ends of the shoots in late summer. Both this and 
Plumbago europaea are increased by division in autumn or spring. 
The South African Plumbago capensis, a greenhouse shrub, is largely 
used for bedding out during the summer months. The bunches of 
light blue flowers are very beautiful. There is a white-flowered 
variety (alba), but the blossoms are less showy than those of the 
typical kind. The plants must be wintered in the greenhouse and 
given comparatively little water. Propagation is easily effected in 
spring by cuttings of the young shoots put in sandy soil in warmth. 
Before growth recommences, straggling branches on old plants 
should be cut back, and old and exhausted shoots cut out. Hard 
pruning, however, is to be avoided, as this leads to the production 
of vigorous shoots that do not flower freely. 

Plume Poppy. — (See Bocconia.) 

Poa {Meadow Grass). — These Grasses (Natural Order Gramineae) 
are, as a rule, of no particular ornamental value. The best is Poa 
trivialis variegata, a neat, compact Grass about 6 inches in height, 
the leaves being freely striped with white ; it is effective as an edging, 
will thrive in ordinary soil, and can be readily increased by division 
in spring. 

Podocarpus.— Evergreen Conifers (Natural Order Coniferae), 
some are large trees, others trees of moderate height, and a few are 
shrubs. They are widely distributed in Tasmania, South Africa, 
China, Japan, Himalaya, Java, New Zealand, Chili, and elsewhere. 
A few are hardy and form handsome bushes in the milder counties ; 
and one or two can be grown in many parts of the country. They 
are seen at their best when planted in moist, but well-drained soil, 
either of loamy or peaty character, in places where a clear atmosphere 
and moderately mild, equable climatic conditions prevail. Increase 
is by seeds or cuttings, plants of the larger-growing kinds raised 
from seeds being preferable. A little pruning in summer is necessary 
now and then in order to shape the bushes, but severe pruning must 
not be attempted. 

The best kinds for out-of-doors are : alpina, a low dense-growing 
bush from Tasmania, growing 3 or 4 feet high, with very small Yew- 
like leaves, the hardiest of all ; chilina, from the Andes of Chili, is 



346 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

a handsome large-growing bush suitable for the southern counties; 
it grows at least 15 feet high, and bears handsome dark green leaves 
2 to 3 inches long. Nageia, from Japan, may be grown out-of-doors 
in Cornwall ; it has rather short, wide leaves. Nubigena, from Chili, is 
suitable for the south-west counties. Totara may also be grown in 
some parts of Cornwall ; it is one of the largest and most important 
timber trees of New Zealand. 

Podophyllum {Duck Foot). — A small class of hardy perennial 
plants, members of the Barberry family (Berberidaceae), with creep- 
ing rootstocks and thick fibrous roots. Only three kinds are in 
cultivation : Emodi, native of the Himalaya, grows about 12 inches 
high, has handsome, lobed, pale green leaves, marbled with bronze, 
the white flowers, about i| inches in diameter, borne in July, being 
succeeded by large fruits, which are bright red when ripe. Peltatum, 
from North America, has whitish flowers, borne on erect stems bear- 
ing two one-sided leaves, the flowerless stems terminating in a large, 
round seven- to nine-lobed leaf of umbrella-like shape, and being 
particularly attractive. Pleianthum, a Chinese kind, has purple 
flowers and fruits and six- to eight-lobed leaves ; it grows from i to 
2 feet high. These plants thrive in damp, boggy soil, and are increased 
by division carried out in spring, or by seed. 

Poet's Narcissus. — {See Narcissus Poeticus.) 

Poke Weed. — {See Phytolacca decandra.) 

Polemonium {Jacob's Ladder).— -Fvetty, free-flowering, herba- 
ceous perennials (Natural Order Polemoniaceae), most of which have 
flowers of some shade of blue. The different kinds vary in height 
from 6 inches to 3 feet, and all bloom during summer. The chief kinds 
are : caeruleum, 2 feet ; caeruleum grandiflorum, 2J feet ; confertum, 
12 inches ; himalaicum, 3 feet ; himalaicum album (white), 3 feet ; 
humile, 6 inches ; reptans, 9 inches ; Richardsonii, 18 inches ; and 
Richardsonii album, 18 inches. All thrive in ordinary soil ; the 
smaller kinds are well suited to the rock garden, and the others to 
the herbaceous border. They need a sunny spot, and flourish in 
ordinary, well-drained soil. 

Polyanthus. — {See Primula.) 

Polygala. — In this group (Natural Order Polygalaceae) are 
several ornamental vigorous shrubs suitable for the gardens of 
the warmer parts of Cornwall and the Scilly Islands, and for 
the greenhouse elsewhere, including also one or two pretty little 
alpine plants available for general cultivation in rock gardens, and 
several weeds. The tender kinds are natives of South Africa, 
California, India, and elsewhere, the most useful being those from 



POLYGONATUM 347 

South Africa. Polygala myrtifolia and its var. grandiflora are typical 
kinds. When planted out they form bushes lo or 12 feet high, but 
are amenable to cultivation in pots, and flower freely when small 
bushes 12 or 18 inches high, in 5- or 6-inch pots. They have small 
oval leaves about i inch in length, and bear reddish- purple flowers, 
which are suggestive in general appearance of those of the Pea family, 
though structurally distinct. Increase is by cuttings during early 
summer ; the young plants are grown in a light and airy greenhouse 
in a compost of 2 parts loam, i part peat, and ^ part each of leaf- 
mould and silver sand. It is necessary to remove the points of the 
shoots occasionally to encourage bushy growth. Old plants may be 
pruned rather severely after flowering. Other useful South African 
species are oppositifolia and virgata. Probably the best alpine 
kind is Chamaebuxus : it grows but a few inches high, with small 
evergreen leaves and creeping stems. The flowers are large for the 
size of the plant, and the colour is cream and yellow ; there is, how- 
ever, a variety with rich purple blooms. It blossoms in spring, and 
should be planted in sandy peat. 

Polygonatum {Solomon's Seal).—Oi the several kinds of Poly- 
gonatum (Natural Order Liliaceae), the most ornamental is the 
Common Solomon's Seal, Polygonatum officinale. Good plants of 
this produce shoots 3 to 4 feet high, clothed with bright green leaves ; 
the stems arch over gracefully, and from the lower side the long- 
stalked greenish-white flowers hang in small clusters in May or early 
June. Other species are : biflorum, multiflorum, oppositifolium, 
roseum (with pinkish flowers), and verticillatum. The flowers of 
the above kinds, with the exception of roseum, greatly resemble each 
other. The Solomon's Seal thrives best in sandy loam, though it 
will grow in quite ordinary soil, and likes shade ; it is never seen 
to greater advantage than in a woodland glade. 

Polygonum {Knot Grass). — This is an extensive group of plants 
(Natural Order Polygonaceae), some of which are but weeds, while 
others are highly ornamental. They vary greatly, from vaccinifolium, 
6 inches or so high, to sachalinense, 10 or 12 feet high, while in bald- 
schuanicum we have a vigorous climber of considerable value for 
the beauty of its blossoms. The chief kinds are : alfine, rose, July 
to October, 6 inches ; alpinum, white, June to August, 3 feet ; amplexi- 
caule, rosy-red, end of summer, 3 feet ; baldschuanicum, feathery 
panicles of white rose-tinted flowers, in May and September, climber ; 
Bistorta, rose, July to September, 2 feet ; capitatum, pink, July and 
August, 6 inches ; compactum, white, autumn, 2 feet ; cuspidatum 
(also known as Sieboldii), creamy- white, late summer and autumn, 



348 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

8 to 10 feet ; sachalinensc, whitish, end of summer, lo to I2 feet ; 
and sphaerostachyum, deep red, late summer and autumn, i2 inches. 

Of those mentioned the dwarf kinds are desirable for the rock 
garden, while the others will thrive in the open border in ordinary 
soil. Great caution must be observed in planting cuspidatum and 
sachalinense, for though a good clump of either forms a striking 
feature, they are a nuisance in cultivated ground ; their creeping 
underground stems choke all other plants, and once they take posses- 
sion of a spot it is almost impossible to eradicate them. They are 
handsome in the wild garden or woodland, but there and there only 
should they be planted. An annual kind, orientale, 5 feet high, 
with drooping clusters of rosy-red flowers, during summer, is well 
worth growing ; while a tender kind, lanigerum, if raised in warmth 
in early spring, and planted out in June, forms a large, spread- 
ing, bushy plant 4 or 5 feet high, with leaves of an intense silvery 
whiteness. Polygonum Bistorta and affine are very attractive in 
the rock garden, in summer for their spikes of pinkish flowers, and 
in autumn and winter for their brilliantly coloured leaves, which, 
however, fall before spring. 

Polypodium [Polypody Fern). — The Polypody (Natural Order 
Filices) is a common British Fern, while it is also found over the 
greater part of Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. There 
is no danger of confounding it with any other kind, though it varies 
a good deal in height, according to the situation in which it is grow- 
ing. It forms a creeping rhizome, from which arise fronds from 
6 to 12 inches long and from 3 to 6 inches wide ; the yellow masses 
of spores form a distinctive feature of this Polypody. It is exceed- 
ingly prolific in varieties, in some of which the pinnae are twice- 
divided, e.g. cambricum, cornubiense, and elegantissimum. In a wild 
state Polypodium vulgare is to be found on old walls, rocks, and 
trees, especially where a little vegetable debris has collected ; it also 
grows freely on the ground, especially in hedge banks and similar 
places. From the evergreen character of its firm, leathery fronds 
this Polypody forms an attractive feature on the rock or wall garden. 
In planting it there its liking for leafy soil must be remembered, 
while the creeping rhizome must not be buried in the soil, but so 
arranged that it lies flat upon the surface with the roots in the soil. 
One half leaf-mould or peat, the other half made up of loam and 
silver sand, form a suitable soil. Once planted, it must be allowed 
to remain undisturbed, as the clumps improve in beauty year by 
year ; it should have a fairly shady, cool, and moderately damp posi- 
tion. There are two other species of Polypodium hardy in this countrj\ 





A ROCKERY GROUP OF PRIMULA 
FRONDOSA 



THE SIKKIM PRIMROSE (PRIMULA 
SIKKIMENSIS) 








_;:ANGK-YELLOW PRIMULA 
BULLEYANA 



PRATIA ANGULATA ON THE 
ROCKERY 



PONTEDERIA CORDATA 349 

namely, Dryopteris (Oak Fern) and Phegopteris (Beech Fern). 
Their popular names are based on the supposition that they occur 
principally in woods of these trees. Both are deciduous and both 
bear much-divided fronds about 9 inches long. They need similar 
treatment to that outlined. 

Pomegranate. — {See Punica.) 

Pontederia cordata. — A North American plant (Natural 
Order Pontederiaceae) which forms a tuft of arrow-head-like leaves 
of a dark green colour and firm texture ; it needs about 12 inches 
depth of water. The spikes of closely set light blue flowers appear 
in summer and autumn. On the margin of a pond this forms a striking 
feature ; it can readily be increased by division in spring. 

Poppy. — (See Papaver.) 

Poppy, Horned. — (See Glaucium.) 

Populus (Poplar). — This is an important genus of usually fast- 
growing trees belonging to the Natural Order Salicaceae, their closest 
allies being the Willows. The Poplars, as they are commonly called, 
are widely distributed through Europe, Northern and Central Asia, 
North Africa, and North America, where they are usually found 
occupying moist land in the vicinity of lakes and streams, even where 
it is sometimes flooded. They are well adapted, therefore, for planting 
in wet land where many other trees would fail. Many kinds form 
large timber trees at fairly rapid rate, and the timber, though soft, 
can be used for a variety of purposes ; it is not very inflammable, 
therefore it is largely used for brake blocks, where there is likely to 
be considerable friction. It is also used extensively for box-making 
and the bottoms of trucks and carts, for it does not easily fracture. 
All except the Aspens (which include tremula, tremuloides, and 
grandidentata) are easily rooted by means of large cuttings inserted 
in an outdoor border during autumn or winter. The exceptions are 
increased from suckers, seeds, or layers. Poplars withstand pruning 
well and are sometimes cut back annually to form a wind-break. 
As a rule, though, pruning is confined to shaping the trees and keep- 
ing the leaders clear. Poplars stand a fair amount of exposure even 
near the sea, and are often used for wind-breaks. 

Populus alba, the Wliite Poplar or Abele of Europe, North Africa, 
etc., is a very common, moderate-sized tree ; its timber is used largely 
for making chip baskets in which to pack fruit and flowers. The var. 
pyramidaHs is of narrow, pyramidal habit, and is a very useful tree ; 
the var. nivea differs from the type by being of bushy habit and 
bearing very silvery leaves. Balsamifera, the Balsam Poplar of North 
America, is a striking tree which emits a balsam-like fragrance, 



350 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

especially after rain ; canescens has greyish bark, and is often called the 
Grey Poplar ; it forms a large tree of distinct appearance. Eugenei 
is a fast-growing hybrid Poplar of narrow, erect habit ; it is used 
largely in France as a field tree. 

Populus serotina is a large, fast-growing North American tree, 
there is a golden-leaved variety often called deltoidea aurea. Nigra 
grows into a very large tree, and is frequently used as a wind-break, 
the var. pyramidalis is the well-known Lombardy Poplar of our 
gardens, one of the most striking of narrow, pyramidal trees. Tremula, 
a native of Europe, North Africa, and North Asia, is well known as 
the Aspen, its dainty, rounded, quivering leaves make it a striking 
tree ; tremuloides is the North American equivalent for the Aspen, 
the var. pendula, called " Parasol de St. JuHen," is a fine pendulous 
tree, and very showy when laden with long male catkins in February. 

Portugal La.ure\.^See Prunus.) 

Portulaca {Purslane). — The Portulacas (Natural Order Portu- 
lacaceae) form an exceedingly pretty race of summer flowering annuals. 
By a continual process of selection they have been raised from Por- 
tulaca grandifiora, native of Brazil ; this has purple or yellow flowers, 
but in the garden varieties the blossoms vary from white, through 
various shades of yellow and scarlet, to purple, while there are both 
single and double-flowered sorts. They are seen to the best advan- 
tage during a hot summer ; if the weather is wet and cold, they are 
usually a comparative failure. They need a warm, well-drained soil, 
and a spot fully exposed to the sun, indeed, the hottest part of the 
garden in the best place for them. They are of a spreading growth, 
and reach a height of about 6 inches ; the stems and leaves are succu- 
lent, so that they will stand drought well, providing the soil is fairly 
deep. Seed may be sown under glass in spring, the young plants 
being placed outside early in June where they are to flower. They 
may also be sown about the end of April in the open border, and 
thinned out to 6 inches apart. 

Potentilla (Cinque/oil); — These are for the most part hardy 
herbaceous perennials (Natural Order Rosaceae), but a few are shrubs. 
Chief among them are : alba, white, 6 inches ; ambigua, yellow, 
3 inches ; argyrophylla, yellow, I2 inches ; formosa or Nepalensis, 
cherry rose, I2 inches, spreading growth ; formosa Miss Willmott, 
bright cerise, 9 inches ; formosa Gibson's Scarlet, intense scarlet, 
12 inches ; formosa Hopwoodiana, rosy-buff, 15 inches ; fruticosa, 
yellow, 3 feet, shrub ; nitida, pale pink, 6 inches ; nitida alba, white, 
6 inches ; nivalis, white, 6 inches ; rupestris, white, 12 inches ; Thur- 
berii, reddish-brown, 9 inches ; Tonguei, orange-yellow, flowers in 



PRATIA 351 

autumn, 9 inches ; and Veitchii, white, 3 feet, shrubby. The dwarf 
kinds are well suited for planting on a sunny part of the rock 
garden in well-drained soil of sandy loam. The more vigorous kinds 
may be planted in the herbaceous border. They can be increased 
by division carried out in spring, the shrubby kinds from cuttings 
taken in August and protected by a frame or handlight. All flower 
from June onwards to the end of the summer. Potentilla nitida is 
a delightful rock garden plant ; the silvery leaves are all the better 
for protection in winter by a pane of glass raised a few inches above 
the plant. 

The border varieties form a very showy class of hardy, herbaceous 
perennials, that reach a height of 18 inches to 2 feet, and flower during 
June, July, and August. The blossoms, which are mostly semi- 
double, are of various shades of yellow, scarlet-crimson, and maroon, 
almost black. A good selection is : Congo, dark maroon ; Dr. Andre, 
golden-yellow, suffused with vermilion ; Drap d'Or, orange ; E. R. 
Cutler, scarlet, splashed with yellow ; Fulton, rich red and yellow ; 
Gold Prince, golden-yellow ; Jupiter, vivid crimson, marked with 
yellow ; Le Vesuve, bright crimson, flushed yellow ; Nigra plena, 
very deep maroon ; Ophir, vermilion ; Vesuvius, scarlet ; Vulcan, 
coppery-red ; and William Rollisson, mahogany- red and orange. 
The foliage of all these much resembles that of the Strawberry. 

Pratia. — Pretty little creeping plants (Natural Order Campanu- 
laceae) for the rock garden, where they thrive in a moist, partially 
shaded spot, and in a mixture of loam, leaf-mould, and sand. Those 
in general cultivation are : angulata, white ; begoniaefolia, blue, 
succeeded by purple berries ; and repens, white, red berries in autumn. 
These little plants only grow about 2 inches high, and bloom during 
the summer. They can be propagated by division in spring. 
Prickly Pear. — [See Opuntia.) 
Prickly Thrift — {See Acantholimon.) 
Primrose. — {See Primula vulgaris.) 
Primrose, Evening. — {See Oenothera.) 

Primula (Primrose).— The hardy Primulas (Natural Order Primu- 
laceae) form one of the most attractive and fascinating groups of 
garden flowers, and a representative collection ought to be considered 
indispensable. The various kinds axe distributed throughout a wide 
area ; the majority grow wild in China, Japan, the Himalaya, and 
other parts of Asia. Others are native of Europe and America, while 
some of the hardy kinds, such, for example, as the varieties of the 
Common Primrose, the Polyanthus, Auricula, and Primula japonica, 
are grown in beds and borders. Most of them are planted in the 



352 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

rock garden, where they blossom chiefly in spring and early summer. 
In recent years many beautiful varieties and cross-bred sorts have been 
raised by florists, and they form a valuable addition to the species or 
wild types. The innumerable varieties of Primula sinensis are impor- 
tant greenhouse flowers. So, too, are Primula Kewensis, verticillata, 
floribunda, Forbesi, and obconica. 

So far as their cultivation in gardens is concerned, hardy Primulas 
may be grouped in three chief classes, namely, rock-loving Primulas, 
which are essentially plants for the rock garden ; those that need 
moist soil and are suitable for the bog garden or cool border ; and 
finally those used in spring bedding, the Common Primrose, Poly- 
anthus and others. Most of the hardy Primulas are perennial ; some 
arc biennial, or usually die or deteriorate after flowering. 

Bog or moisture-loving Primulas. — Many of those included in this 
group are vigorous plants bearing tall flowering stems on which the 
blooms are usually disposed in whorls or tiers a few inches apart ; 
their blossoming season is thus a long one, for as the stems lengthen 
so do the flowers continue to open. They prefer moist, peaty or leafy 
soil and a cool position, such, for example, as in the bog garden or by 
the side of a small stream, but most of them can be grown without 
difficulty in any cool, half-shady spot in a mixture of loam, peat or 
leaf-soil with sand. The most satisfactory method of propagation is 
by means of seeds sown as soon as ripe in boxes in a cold frame or 
in spring in a slightly heated greenhouse. The seeds are small, and need 
to be sown thinly and covered only with a sprinkling of sand. By 
late summer the seedlings will be large enough to plant out-of-doors 
where they may be expected to flower the following year. The 
herbaceous kinds can be increased by division in late summer, and 
some of the rock Primulas by cuttings in summer. 

Primula Beesiana is one of the newer kinds from Western China ; 
it is of vigorous growth, and in early summer bears purplish, yellow- 
centred blossoms on a strong stem, 2 feet or more high. 

Another kind of recent introduction from Yunnan is Primula 
bulleyana, an especially handsome plant. It is of strong growth, 
and in May and June bears flowers of orange-yellow colour arranged in 
tiers on a thick stem similarly to Primula japonica. Its needs are 
simple, for a partially shaded position and deep soil of the kind already 
described suit it admirably. Primula cashmiriana is a variety of 
Primula denticulata, and differs from that kind in that the lower 
surface of the leaves is covered with yellow " powder," and the 
flowers are usually paler in colour. It needs similar treatment to 
denticulata. 



PRIMULA 353 

A particularly showy kind is Primula cockburniana, native of 
Western China. It is far less vigorous than those already named, 
and bears orange-red blossoms on slender stems in early summer. 
Although perennial in some gardens, it is more often treated as a 
biennial, seed being sown each spring to provide flowering plants for 
the following year. It likes a cool spot and moist, yet well-drained 
soil. Two splendid Primulas, closely allied to cockburniana, have 
been raised in gardens, namely, Unique (shown in one of the coloured 
plates) and Lissadell Hybrid ; both are more vigorous than cock- 
burniana, have flowers of similar colour, and need the same conditions. 
Primula saxatilis (cortusoides) is an attractive kind from Siberia, 
with prettily cut leaves, and bunches of rose-coloured blossoms on 
stems some lo to 12 inches high. There are numerous varieties 
both of this and of Primula Sieboldii, of which the blooms are similar. 
They are quite easy to grow in half shade, and a mixture of loam and 
peat or leaf-soil. 

The Himalyan Primula capitata blossoms in July and later, when 
most kinds are over, and for this reason is more than ordinarily valuable. 
The flowers, which are in round heads on white stems, are of violet or 
purple colour. Seeds must be sown each summer, for the plants die 
after flowering. In common with others of this section it needs shade 
and a moist, well-drained soil. The Bird's-Eye Primrose (Primula 
farinosa) is a charming little native kind for a cool, moist spot, though 
it is far less dependable than Primula frondosa, which may be described 
as a larger form of farinosa. 

Primula Forresti is another of the newer kinds from Western China ; 
it is of vigorous growth, and bears yellow fragrant blossoms, and is 
suited by limy loam. It has not proved generally hardy, and should 
be protected in winter by a handlight or cloche. A dainty little 
plant bearing whitish flowers on slender stems some 6 inches high is 
Primula involucrata ; it is quite happy in moist, peaty soil in half 
shade. A very closely allied kind is Primula sibirica. 

One of the most striking of the newer Chinese Primulas is 
littoniana ; it is remarkable for the fact that the buds are red and the 
flowers lilac-purple. It blooms in July, and thrives in moist, deep 
soil in partial shade. 

The Japanese Primrose (Primula japonica) is among the easiest 
and most handsome of all ; it soon forms a strong tuft, from which, 
in May, rise stout stems bearing blossoms of crimson, rose, white, or 
other shade according to variety. Primula pulverulenta is a close 
relative, but is even more handsome owing to its white, powdery stems 
and finer flowers. Both thrive in moist loam and peat in partial shade. 

X 



354 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

The Himalayan Primula rosea is a charming little plant, forming 
a close leafy tuft, and bearing in April intense rose-coloured blooms 
on 6 inch high stems. It is easily grown in peaty soil in the bog garden 
or other moist spot. Seeds form a ready means of increase, or the plants 
may be divided after flowering. The Sikkim Primrose (Primula Sik- 
kimensis) is one of the most graceful of all, bearing sulphur-yellow 
drooping blossoms on stems some 2 feet high in early summer. A 
cool position and moist soil are essential. 

Rock Primulas. Sovao. of the choicest rock garden plants are 
found in this section of Primula : they are of low growth, natives chiefly 
of the European Alps, and generally need partial shade and deep, 
well-drained soil, the composition of which must be veiried according 
to the requirements of the species. Primula Auricula (illustrated in 
one of the coloured plates) is well known by reason of its having been 
one of the parents of the race of garden Auriculas which are referred to 
on page 53. It is a lovely plant, with thick mealy leaves and yellow 
flowers, and is found wild on limestone in the European Alps ; it 
thrives best in loam containing lime, and should be planted firmly 
in partially shaded rock crevices, preferably flat against the rock. The 
roots descend deeply, and a fair depth of well-drained compost is 
essential. 

The dainty little Primula Allionii, from limestone cliffs in the 
Maritime Alps needs more than ordinary care ; a sunny crevice in 
limestone rock, firm planting, and good depth of soil provide ideal 
conditions. The lilac rose-coloured flowers, large for the size of the 
plants, open in late spring. Primula carniolica from the Carinthian 
Alps bears rose-purple blooms in April from an attractive tuft of 
glossy green leaves ; it needs to be planted firmly in moist soil contain- 
ing grit, and is best suited by a partially shaded spot. Primula 
clusiana from the Austrian Alps is a delightful little plant with 
attractive deep green leaves and large rose-carmine flowers, the petals 
of which are deeply cleft. Primula glaucescens (calycina) is similar, 
though possessing distinctive characters in the glaucous tinge of the 
leaves and less deeply cleft flowers. Both bloom in April, and thrive 
in well-drained loamy, gritty soil in partial shade. 

One of the most popular of the Rock Primulas is hirsuta (usually 
described in catalogues as viscosa), which is native of the Alps of South- 
East Europe ; it has somewhat downy, saw-edged leaves, and in early 
summer bears heads of rose-coloured bloom. A lovely variety of 
this plant is the white-flowered hirsuta alba, more generally known 
as nivalis. Both kinds must be planted firmly in rock crevices in 
gritty loam and peat in slight shade. Primula integrifolia, native of 



PRUMNOPITYS ELEGANS 355 

the high Alps of Europe, though a small plant, bears unusually large 
blooms of rose colouring ; it thrives under similar conditions to Primula 
hirsuta. 

Primula marginata, native of the Maritime Alps, is one of the 
most charming of Rock Primulas ; the leaves are greyish with yellow 
margin, and the dainty flowers, which open in April, are of deep 
lavender shade. A sunny crevice, and loam containing grit and lime- 
stone, fulfil its needs. Primula minima is a tiny plant which forms 
a dense tuft, and in early summer bears comparatively large rose- 
coloured blooms. Care is necessary that this kind does not get parched 
in summer, and a moist soil of peat and loam is suitable. Primula 
pedemontana from the Piedmont is particularly showy when its heads 
of deep rose or crimson flowers are at their best in April ; it prefers 
a partially shaded crevice and gritty soil. The true Primula viscosa 
is a native of the Maritime Alps, and, in April, bears flowers of pale 
violet-purple on stems several inches high ; the var. Mrs. J. H. Wilson 
has rich violet-coloured blooms, and is especially handsome. These 
are not difficult in deep gritty soil in partial shade among rock-work. 

Garden Primulas. — The Common Primrose (Primula vulgaris) is 
too well-known to need more than passing reference to its value as a 
flower for the woodland, streamside bank, shady walk, and spring 
beds. Together with the Oxslip (Primula elatior) it is, in its many 
varieties, especially those of blue colouring, delightful also in the 
rock garden. However, so far as spring flower gardening is concerned, 
the Polyanthus (which is considered to be a variety of the Primrose) 
is now more largely grown. The varieties of Polyanthus have been 
improved wonderfully during recent years, and their showy flowers 
provide a rich display in April and May. Both Primrose and Poly- 
anthus are easily raised from seed sown in drills on a shady border 
during May or June, the seedlings subsequently being transplanted. 
Well-dug, loamy soil, with which some leaf-mould is mixed, and a 
position in partial shade are all they need, and there they will thrive 
if watered as becomes necessary and kept free from weeds. 

Privet. — {See Ligustrum.) 

Prumnopitys elegans {Plum-fruited Yew). — ^This belongs to the 
Conifers (Natural Order Coniferae), and is a native of Chili. In a 
wild state it forms a tree 40 or 50 feet high, but here it is usually 
seen as a large bush. Of Yew-like character, it is preferable to the 
Common Yew for gardens, for its leaves are of a more cheerful shade 
of green ; they are small, from ^ to | inch long, and softer than those 
of the Common Yew. The fruits are whitish when ripe and resemble 
a small plum or large cherry in appearance. Plant in ordinary moist, 



356 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

garden soil, where lime is not prevalent, and increase by means of 
cuttings, or seeds when obtainable. Seeds are not often matured 
here, however. No systematic pruning is necessary, but if the 
bushes become unshapely a little cutting may be done in summer. 

Prunella {Self Heal). — These are free-growing carpeting plants 
(Natural Order Labiatae), well suited for clothing rough, moist, rocky 
banks. The chief kinds are : grandifiora, violet-purple, 9 inches ; 
vulgaris, purple, 9 inches ; and Wcbbiana, rosy-purple, 9 inches. 
They can be increased to any extent by division. Prunella vulgaris 
is a common wild plant in Britain, and is sometimes a weed on lawns. 

Prunus. — This is a very important group of the Rose family 
(Rosaceae), for it contains a considerable number of handsome decor- 
ative trees and shrubs and also includes several of our best fruit- 
bearing trees ; the species are widely distributed, being common 
throughout Europe, Northern and Central Asia, Japan, and North 
America. The cultivated kinds are divided into a number of well- 
marked groups. Thus, Amygdalus includes the Almonds and Peaches ; 
Armeniaca, the Apricots ; Prunus (proper), the Plums ; Cerasus, the 
Cherries ; Padus, the Bird Cherries ; and Laurocerasus, the Laurels. 

The treatment of the different groups does not vary to any con- 
siderable extent, except in the case of that last mentioned, the mem- 
bers of which are evergreens. All thrive in good loamy soil, such 
as is found in an ordinary garden. They do not like deep planting ; 
simply place about i or i inch of soil over the upper roots ; fresh 
manure placed immediately about the roots is detrimental, although 
it may be put over the soil as a mulch in summer. The species are 
increased by means of seeds and the varieties by grafting or budding 
upon Plum, Cherry, or Almond stocks. Some kinds can, however, 
be propagated by cuttings or by layers. 

Pruning of the tree kinds needs to be done with care, especially 
when it necessitates the removal of large limbs, for- all the members 
of the Prunus family are liable to attack by a disease known as " gum- 
ming," which often originates from wounds and eventually kills the 
trees. Any wounds that are made must be immediately protected 
by coal-tar. When pruning is confined to the shortening of the 
previous year's shoots, however, the fear of injury is not so great. 
The Laurel group also stands pruning well. For special cultural 
remarks relative to this group, see " Laurocerasus." 

Several diseases are rather prevalent among the Prunuses, and 
perhaps the most prominent one at the present moment is that known 
as " Silver Leaf Disease." This is most common amongst cultivated 
Plums, but it also attacks Cherries, Laurels, and other kinds. It is 



PRUNUS 357 

easily detected by the sickly, anaemic, silvery appearance of the leaves, 
due to an air space forming beneath the epidermis. It has been of 
peculiar interest to scientists, for they were unable to account for 
the disease for a long time, and even now there remains much to 
learn concerning it, and a remedy for a diseased tree has yet to be 
found. There are enemies in the form of aphis which attack the 
young leaves and shoots ; these may be kept in check by spraying 
with paraffin emulsion. Scale insects are also found, particularly on 
the Peaches ; they may be attacked by spraying in winter with a 
caustic wash, or in April and May with paraffin emulsion. Several 
members of the Prunus group are of the greatest value for forcing for 
greenhouse and conservatory decoration in spring. The best are 
those with double flowers, such as japonica flore pleno ; triloba flore 
pleno ; and the various varieties of Cherry and Peach. If lifted from 
the open border in October and potted, they may be placed in the 
forcing-house in January. Few plants better repay the little trouble 
given. 

In the following notes attention is directed to a few of the best kinds 
in each group : Amygdalus (Almonds and Peaches). — Prunus Amyg- 
dalus is the Common Almond, one of the most beautiful of March flower- 
ing trees in the South of England. It is native of Southern Europe, 
the Levant, etc., and has long been grown here, where it is known as 
a tree 15 to 35 feet high, bearing a profusion of rose-coloured blossoms. 
There are numerous varieties, of which dulcis produces the Sweet 
Almonds, and amara the Bitter Almonds, of commerce. The var. 
persicoides blooms 2 or 3 weeks in advance of the type, and macro- 
carpa has very large flowers and fruits. Prunus Davidiana is a Chinese 
tree which blooms in February, bearing either rose-coloured or white 
flowers ; nana is a miniature Almond from Southern Russia, 2 or 3 feet 
high, forming a spreading bush and bearing rose-coloured flowers 
freely ; georgica and Gessleriana are richly coloured varieties. 

Prunus Persica is the parent of our garden Peaches ; it is con- 
sidered to be a native of China, and has been cultivated for many cen- 
turies. The double-flowered varieties are the most useful for decorative 
gardening ; they form trees up to 20 feet high, but may be kept 
dwarf by cutting the previous year's shoots back each year after 
flowering. Good kinds are : camelliaeflora, magnifica, chrysanthemum, 
and flore rubro pleno, with double red flowers ; flore roseo pleno and 
Clara Meyer, with double rose flowers ; and flore albo pleno, double 
white. 

Prunus (True Plums). — The most important species in this group 
is Prunus communis, from which the fruiting Plums of our gardens 



358 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

have been evolved by cultivation ; as a wild plant it is showy by 
reason of its white flowers, but it is not worth growing for decoration. 
Pninus cerasifera, the Cherry Plum or Myrobalan of the Caucasus, 
is very showy, for it forms a low, wide-headed tree which blooms 
with considerable freedom in March or early April, the flowers being 
w'hite ; the fruits are bright red, but are not borne freely here. Atro- 
purpurea is a purple-leaved variety (sometimes called Prunus Pis- 
sardi). The Cherry Plum can be used as a hedge plant. Prunus 
divaricata is a similar tree with yellow fruits ; maritima and americana 
are American Plums, which have been used to some extent by the 
hybridist ; spinosa flore pleno is a double-flowered form of the Common 
Sloe or Blackthorn, and an admirable bush for the garden ; it is usually 
grafted upon the typical kind. 

Prunus triflora is a native of China and other countries, but is 
usually called the Japanese Plum ; its white flowers are conspicuous 
in spring here, but the fruits are not produced. It is the parent of 
a race of Plums, though probably some American kinds have been 
used with it, which are grown largely in California, Austraha, and South 
Africa, and are received in British markets from the last-named 
country in winter. 

Cerasus (Cherries). — Prunus Avium, the Common Cherry, and 
Prunus Cerasus, the Morello Cherry, are the two species which are 
most largely cultivated for fruits, although both have, of course, 
been very much improved. Prunus Avium is found wild in many 
parts of the country as a tree 40, 50, or sometimes 90 feet high ; the 
timber is of a pretty reddish hue, and is used for furniture. The 
double-flowered form, flore pleno, is the one often grown for decora- 
tive purposes, and it is a beautiful object when every branch is wreathed 
in May with pure white pendent blossoms ; the single-flowered var. 
pendula, with weeping branches, is also worth growing. Prunus acida 
is another useful kind, native of Europe, forming a small tree of 
compact growth ; Dumosa, humilis, and Marasca are dwarf forms 
which flower freely and are suitable for small gardens. Semper- 
florens is another variety, but very unhke others : its branches are 
rather pendent, and the blossoms borne in drooping clusters in May 
and again in July, it is often called the All Saints' Cherry. Cerasus 
Rhexii flore pleno is a double-flowered form of the Morello, though 
not quite so beautiful as Avium flore pleno. 

Prunus japonica was for many years only known by its double- 
flowered varieties, flore albo pleno and flore roseo pleno, but the 
single-flowered kind was introduced from China a few years ago. 
The double-flowered ones are better garden shrubs, although they 



PSEUDOLARIX FORTUNEI 359 

have not the additional attraction of bright red fruits which the 
single one possesses. These should be planted in good soil and cut 
back every second year ; they are only 3 to 4 feet high. Prunus 
Pseudocerasus and serrulata are allied kinds from China and Japan 
which are often mistaken one for the other ; the varieties of the 
former have, however, hairy, and those of the latter smooth, leaves. 
There are varieties of both with very large double flowers ; of the 
former Watered, with pink flowers, is the best, and of the latter, 
flore albo pleno, flore luteo pleno. roseo pleno, and James H. Veitch 
are all good. The last-named has large rich red double flowers. 

Armeniaca (Apricots). — Prunus Armeniaca, the Apricot, is more 
popular for its fruit than as a flowering tree ; Mume, the Japanese 
Apricot, though, is showy when in flower, especially the varieties with 
double white and double pink blooms. Prunus triloba flore pleno is, 
however, the most popular flowering plant of the group ; it forms a 
large shrub and bears charming pink flowers i inch across in April. 
The flowering branches may be pruned hard back as soon as the 
flowers fade. Prunus triloba is a native of China. 

Padus (Bird Cherries). — Prunus Mahaleb, the St. Lucie Cherry, 
is a European tree with a large rounded head ; its white flowers are 
borne during late May in profusion in small flattened heads. Pendula 
is a good variety with pendent branches. Prunus Padus, the Common 
Bird Cherry, is wild in the British Isles ; its white flowers are borne 
in May in dense racemes 3 inches long, but some of the varieties have 
inflorescences twice as long ; Alberti and flore pleno are two of the 
best varieties. 

Laurocerasus (Laurels). — Prunus Laurocerasus, the Common Laurel, 
or Cherry Laurel, a native of Eastern Europe and the Orient, and Prunus 
lusitanica, the Portugal Laurel, from Spain and Portugal, are the 
most important species in this group. Both are well-known vigorous 
shrubs which form handsome specimens if left unpruned, but are 
often ruined by incessant cutting back. The Portugal Laurel is a 
difficult plant to transplant, and should be placed in permanent posi- 
tions while quite small. May and September are the best times to 
plant. Of the Common Laurel the following are the best of the 
many varieties : Camelliaefoha, caucasica, latifolia, Otinii, schip- 
kaensis, and versaillensis. Of Prunus lusitanica the vars. Azorica, 
ormstoniensis, and myrtifolia are the best. Variegated-leaved kinds 
must be avoided. 

Pseudolarix Fortune! {Golden Larch).— This Chinese tree is also 
known as Pseudolarix Kaempferi. It belongs to the Natural Order 
Coniferae, is included in the leaf-losing group, and is alhed to the 



36o THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Larches. In China it sometimes grows over loo feet high, but it 
is not hkely to attain, at its best, more than half that height here. 
It was introduced by Fortune in 1846, and is still uncommon. It 
differs from the ordinary Larches by its longer and wider leaves, 
and its cones are also distinct, being much larger and breaking up 
as soon as ripe. A decorative feature of the tree is the golden 
autumnal colouring of the leaves. It is best adapted for good, deep, 
moderately moist soil, and is increased by seeds. Pruning is necessary 
now and then to keep a clear leader. 

Pseudotsuga Douglasii (Douglas Fir). — One of the most import- 
ant timber trees of Western North America. It belongs to the Natural 
Order Coniferae, and is closely allied to the Firs, but may be dis- 
tinguished by its softer leaves and pendent cones which do not break 
up when the seeds are ripe. Under natural conditions it attains an 
enormous size, trees being frequently more than 200 feet high, and 
6 to 8 feet in diameter. It grows rapidly in many parts of the British 
Isles, attaining its greatest luxuriance in the moist and sheltered 
valleys of South-West England, Wales, Ireland, and Scotland. It 
has great merits as a decorative tree, and is also grown under forest 
conditions. There are two distinct types grown, one bearing green 
and the other glaucous leaves ; the former is considered to be the 
hardier. There are also several varieties, but they are of little account. 
Another species, Pseudotsuga macrocarpa, is sometimes grown, but 
its merits are quite overshadowed by the other. Plant in loamy or 
peaty soil where lime is not abundant. Increase is by seeds, though 
it is not likely that the amateur will wish to raise his own trees, for 
they can be purchased cheaply. Systematic pruning is not required. 

Psoralea. — Shrubs and herbaceous plants belonging to the Pea 
family (Leguminosae), very few of which are in cultivation. Two of 
the commonest bushy kinds are glandulosa, from Chili, and pinnata, 
from South Africa. They may be grown out-of-doors in the south- 
west counties, but require protection elsewhere. They grow from 
4 to 6 feet high, and the former bears blue and white and the latter 
blue Pea-shaped flowers during late spring or summer. Give loamy 
soil, and increase by seeds. Pruning is restricted to shortening the 
branches a little after flowering. A few kinds sometimes grown in 
the herbaceous border are acaulis, Onobrychis, and tenuiflora. 

Ptelea trifoiiata, the Hop Tree of the United States, is the best- 
known kind in this group, which belongs to the Natural Order Rutaceae. 
Here it forms a small round-headed tree, with three parted deciduous 
leaves, and bears panicles of green, but very fragrant flowers in early 
summer. The flowers are followed by clusters of quaint fruits, the 



PTERIS AQUILINA 361 

central seed being surrounded by a dry membranous wing, the whole 
fruit being about | inch across. The fruits have a bitter Hop-like 
taste and possess tonic properties. Although less showy than many 
of the eadier flowering trees, its interesting character warrants its 
planting in the garden, particularly as it is easily grown in ordinary 
soil. There are several varieties, of which aurea, with golden leaves 
and fastigiata, of stiff, erect growth, are the most distinct. The 
typical kind is increased by seeds and the varieties by cuttings or 
by grafting. Regular pruning is unnecessary. Ptelea Baldwinii is 
a second kind from Northern California. 

Pterls Aquilina {Brake Fern or Bracken). — This is by far the 
most common of our British Ferns (Natural Order Filices), for in 
many places it covers wide areas. In an open sandy loam and a 
partially shaded moist spot, it attains its greatest luxuriance. Under 
such conditions the feathery fronds are of a beautiful light green tint, 
but where fully exposed to the sun and under drier conditions they 
often acquire a reddish tinge ; this is most pronounced towards autumn. 
There are places in the wild garden or woodland where Bracken 
proves effective ; the creeping rhizomes do not penetrate deeply, and 
the best way to establish them is to dig out some turf-like blocks 
containing the roots or rhizomes, and plant in their new quarters as 
taken up. The wide geographical distribution of the Brake Fern 
is particularly noteworthy, for it extends from Lapland and Siberia 
to the Cape of Good Hope. In the Western Hemisphere it also occurs 
from the extreme north to Mexico. There are several varieties, but 
the departures from the normal type are much less pronounced than 
is the case with many British Ferns. 

Pterocarya is a group of trees allied to the Hickories and Walnuts, 
belonging to the Walnut family (Juglandaceae). They are distinct 
from those trees, however, by reason of their small nut-like fruits 
being attended by dry membranous wings. In all cases the leaves 
are pinnate and ornamental, and male and female flowers are borne 
on different inflorescences. The female inflorescences often elongate 
after the death of the flowers, and the catkins of fruits sometimes 
exceed a foot in length. They require moist, loamy soil, and are 
happily placed upon the bank of a stream or lake, where the roots 
can enter the water. Propagation is by seeds, and pruning is limited 
to shaping the trees when young and keeping the leaders clear. Ptero- 
carya caucasica, from the Caucasus, is the commonest species ; it 
grows into a wide-spreading tree 30 to 50 feet high here, but is taller 
in a state of nature. It fruits freely in this country. Pterocarya 
rhofoha, from Japan, is a rare kind, but occasionally met with, as 



362 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

also is stenoptera, from China. The most showy species of all is con- 
sidered to be Paliurus, a Chinese tree introduced 12 or 14 years ago ; 
it has decorative foliage and large circular fruit an inch or more across. 
It is very rare at present. 

Pterostypax. — This group, which belongs to the Natural Order 
Styraceae, comprises two hardy shrubs or small trees. They are : 
corymbosa, from Japan ; and hispida, from China and Japan. Both 
are decorative and suitable for borders in the Midlands and South 
of England, and for walls in cold districts. They differ from Halesia 
by their smaller cream or white flowers being disposed in pendent 
panicles. Plant in warm, loamy soil or in soil containing a little 
peat. Propagation is by seeds and cuttings, and pruning is confined 
to shaping after flowering and thinning the inside branches. 

Pulmonaria {Lung Wort). — A group of European plants (Natural 
Order Boraginaceae), nearly related to the Borage, and, like this, 
having flowers of some shade of blue or rose-purple ; the hairy leaves 
are marked with white. They are of comparatively dwarf growth, 
and may be planted in the rock garden, while they are also suitable 
for the front of the flower border. The chief kinds are : angustifolia, 
blue, March to June, 12 inches ; angustifolia azurea, deeper blue ; 
arvernensis, rich blue, spring, 9 inches; arvernensis alba, white, spring ; 
rubra, brick-red, March to July, 12 inches ; and saccharata, rose and 
blue, April and May, 12 inches. Pulmonarias can be increased by 
division carried out in early autumn or spring, the first-named for 
preference. 

Punica Qranatum {Pomegranate). — This belongs to the Natural 
Order Lythraceae, and is sometimes grown out-of-doors against sunny 
walls in the milder parts of the country, where it frequently perfects 
its showy scarlet flowers and sometimes matures fruit. There are 
two distinct varieties in addition to the type ; one, flore pleno, with 
double scarlet flowers nearly 3 inches across, and nana, with small 
scarlet flowers. The last-named flowers more freely than the others, 
and gives excellent results near London if placed against the warm 
wall of a greenhouse facing south. The various kinds are sometimes 
grown in tubs and stood out on terraces during summer. Generally, 
however, we have insufficient sun to warrant their being grown out- 
of-doors. Plant in loamy soil and give what little pruning is neces- 
sary in winter. The Pomegranate is a native of Persia. 

Purslane.— (5^^ Portulaca.) 

Puschkinia ecilloides {Striped Squill). — A delightful little, spring- 
flowering, bulbous plant, from the Orient, that reaches a height of 
6 to 8 inches. It belongs to the Lily family (Liliaceae), and the 



i 



PYRETHRUM 363 

flowers are white striped with rich blue. It will thrive in a well- 
drained border, and forms a very pleasing feature in the rock garden. 
The bulbs ought to be planted in September or October. 

Pyrethrum. — Botanists now class these plants (Natural Order 
Compositae) with the Chrysanthemum, the original species from 
which the garden varieties have sprung being known as Chrysanthemum 
coronarium. The name of Pyrethrum is, however, in such general 
use that in order to avoid confusion it is used here. Both the single 
and double varieties are well-known border plants, while the long 
firm stems render the blooms suitable for cutting. The flowers are, 
as a rule, at their best in May and June. The Pyrethrum delights 
in well-manured soil ; in too light ground it does not grow freely, 
whereas in clayey soils it is apt to die during the winter. Just as 
the young leaves appear a sharp look out must be kept for slugs, 
which soon do a good deal of damage. Division, which should be 
carefully done, is best carried out in early autumn or in March. 

Some good double varieties are : Ajax, purple-crimson ; Aphrodite, 
pure white ; Captain Nares, bright, glowing crimson ; Celia, bright 
pink ; Duchess of Edinburgh, rosy-mauve ; Lady Derby, silvery 
flesh ; La Vestale, blush ; Lord Rosebery, brilliant scarlet ; Melton, 
bright crimson-scarlet ; Mont Blanc, white ; niveum plenum, white, 
quilled flower ; Queen Mary, salmon-pink ; rubrum plenum, rosy- 
purple ; Triomphe de Mai, carmine-rose ; and Virgo, creamy- sulphur. 
Single-flowered sorts are : Agnes Mary Kelway, bright rose ; Albert 
Victor, crimson-scarlet ; Alexis, amaranth ; Beatrice Kelway, cherry- 
rose ; Carmen Sylva, blush white ; Coccinea, reddish-purple ; Fairy, 
rose-pink ; Hebe, pure white ; James Kelway, vivid scarlet ; Mrs. 
Bateman Brown, rich crimson ; Mrs. William Kelway, flesh-pink ; 
Standard, rosy-carmine ; and Vivid, crimson- amaranth. 

Pyrola {Winter green).- — Low-growing, half-shrubby plants, be- 
longing to the Heather family (Ericaceae). The chief kinds are : 
elliptica, white, June and July, 6 inches ; media, white, tinged red, 
July, 4 inches ; rotundifoha, white, June and July, 6 inches ; and 
secunda, greenish-white, June and July. They thrive in peaty or 
leafy soil in a moist, half-shady portion of the rock garden. 

Pyrus. — This is a very important class (Natural Order Rosaceae), 
for it includes two of our most valuable fruits in the Apple and Pear, 
while many kinds are decidedly ornamental and amongst the most 
beautiful flowering trees of the garden. Moreover, the majority are 
hardy and thrive throughout the British Isles. They are widely 
distributed through the Northern Hemisphere ; Europe, Asia, and 
North America all contributing numerous kinds. Several species are 



364 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

found^wild in the British Isles. The group is divided into several 
sections under different sub-headings. Thus, Pyrophorum includes 
all the Pear family ; Malus, the Apples ; Sorbus, the Mountain Ashes ; 
Aria, the Wliite Beams ; Adenorachis, the Choke-berries ; and Mespilus, 
the Medlars. Some botanists split up the different groups and give 
each one generic rank, whilst others include the Quinces (Cydonia). 
With these matters, however, we have little to do, and for our pur- 
pose we give them as above. 

All require somewhat similar methods of cultivation. They thrive 
in ordinary garden soil ; the species may be increased by seeds, and 
the varieties by grafting or budding. A few kinds may be propa- 
gated by cuttings, but, as a rule, that method is not recommended. 
Pruning takes the form of keeping the centres of the trees open and 
removing branches which are in the way. All wounds so made must 
be coated with tar. Some of the kinds are liable to attacks by various 
insect pests, notably by scale insects, and the Malus group by American 
Blight. It is a good plan to spray the trees with a caustic wash in 
winter. This kills many insects and helps to remove dirt, moss, 
and rough bark under which insects may lurk. In summer, American 
Blight may be attacked with paraffin emulsion. In the following 
notes attention is directed to a few of the best kinds in each group. 

Pyrophorum (Pears). — This group is made up chiefly of white- 
flowered trees which bloom in April and May, the commonest example 
being Pj^rus communis, the ordinary Wild Pear. As a wild tree or 
an occupant of park or shrubbery it possesses considerable beauty 
by reason of its wealth of blossom ; the fruits are small, rather dry, 
and gritty. Garden Pears have originated by many years of cul- 
tivation and selection. Pyrus auricularis, though usually included 
amongst the Pears, is strictly a hybrid between communis and Aria ; 
it is intermediate in character between the two trees, and the flat 
heads of white flowers are followed by scarlet and gold pear-shaped 
fruits. BetulaefoHa is the Birch-leaved Pear from China and Japan, 
growing at least 20 feet high, and forming a decorative tree ; 
longipes, from Algeria, is handsome alike for its white flowers and 
tiny brown fruits ; Pashia, an Indian Pear, differs from other kinds" 
by having flowers suffused with pink. 

Pyrus salicifolia, the Willow-leaved Pear, has narrow, Willow- 
like, silvery leaves, white flowers, and small green fruits. Sinensis 
is interesting, in addition to being a showy tree, for it is the parent 
of the cultivated Pears of China and Japan ; the var. Simonii is curious, 
as the fruits are exactly the reverse in shape to other Pear fruits. 
Tschonoskii is one of the newer Pears, for it has been received from 




A DAISY BUSH (OLEARIA MACRODONTA) IN SOMERSET 



PYRUS 365 

Japan within the last twenty years : it is a tall, upright-growing 
tree, bearing white flowers shaded with pink, and small, hard green 
and red fruits. 

Mains (Apples and Crab Apples). — This is the most important 
group so far as ornamental trees are concerned ; it includes numerous 
species, amongst which the following are conspicuous : Pyrus baccata, 
the Siberian Crab, a widely distributed tree from the Himalaya to 
Siberia and Japan, forms a large bushy specimen which bears a 
profusion of white rose-flushed flowers in May ; they are followed 
by round fruits which are usually red when ripe. The fruits are 
esteemed for jelly making, but if allowed to remain on the tree they 
frequently hang until March. Pyrus prunifolia is a closely allied tree 
from Northern Asia ; it differs from baccata by its fruit ripening earlier 
and by the persistent calyx lobes which remain in the same way 
as those of the Apple, whereas those of baccata fall. The var. cerasi- 
formis has rich red fruits as also has fructu coccinea, whilst xanthor- 
carpa has yellow fruits. Pyrus coronaria, the American Crab Apple, 
is a native of the Eastern United States, and is distinguished by large 
Apple-like blossoms succeeded by bright green fruits i to ij inches 
in diameter. The double-flowered var. flore pleno is, however, superior 
to the type for ornamental planting. Its flowers are borne late in 
May, and are often 2 to 2\ inches across. 

Pyrus floribunda forms a large bush or small tree, often from 12 to 
16 feet high ; its branches, which sweep the ground, have a diameter 
of 15 or 20 feet. The pink-flushed flowers are in such profusion as 
almost to hide the branches during late April and early May. Atro- 
sanguinea is really an improvement on the type, its flowers being more 
richly coloured. Halliana is considered to be a hybrid, it has large 
bright rose and white semi-double flowers, which appear with great 
freedom. 

Pyrus Malus, the Common Crab Apple, is found wild in some parts 
of the British Isles. Several varieties have been given names, and 
all are showy when in flower, but they are usually passed over for the 
large- fruited kinds, such as John Downie, Dartmouth, and other 
garden forms, which are equally beautiful in flower and infinitely 
more so in fruit. Pyrus Niedzwetzkyana is sometimes included as 
a species, but it is really either a variety of Malus or a hybrid, for 
a small percentage only come true from seed. It is said to come 
from the Caucasus, and its interest centres in its red flowers, a colour 
which also tinges leaves, wood, roots, and fruits. 

Pyrus Ringo is a small tree from Japan, which bears a profusion 
of white rose-flushed flowers followed by golden fruits ; Scheideckeri, 



366 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

said to be a hybrid between prunifolia and floribunda, produces semi- 
double flowers in such profusion as to check growth, and is excellent 
for places where a free-flowering but slow-growing tree is necessary. 
Spectabilis, from China and Japan, grows as large as an ordinary 
Apple tree, and produces fine large flowers, but is outclassed by its 
double-flowered var. flore pleno ; this never fails to bear a wealth 
of blossoms of a bright pink hue ; the var. Kaido is also very attractive. 

Aria (White Beam). — Pyrus alnifolia is a rare Japanese and 
Chinese tree with Alder-like leaves and white flowers in flattened 
heads ; the small, scarlet oval fruits ripen in August. Aria, the 
Common White Beam Tree of northerly regions, is found in many 
parts of the British Isles, particularly on chalky ground ; it forms a 
bush or tree up to 45 feet high, and is handsome alike by its oval 
greyish leaves, white flowers in large flat heads, and orange and 
scarlet fruits. There are numerous varieties, of which chrysophylla, 
with golden leaves, graeca, a very free-flowering and free-fruiting 
form, and majestica, with handsome leaves and particularly large 
and showy red fruits, are the best. Pyrus crataegifolia, sometimes 
called Cormus florentina, is a dwarf bushy tree from North Italy ; 
it is very handsome by reason of its deeply lobed leaves, fine flowers, 
and fruit. Pyrus intermedia, a European species, is distinguished 
by its leaves being distinctly pinnate about the lower part, it is a 
very good town tree. Pinnatifida is a somewhat similar tree, but 
the divisions of the leaves do not extend to the midribs ; both it 
and its var. fastigiata are excellent town trees ; rotundifolia is very 
similar to Aria, with rounder leaves and larger fruits ; Torminalis, 
the Wild Service, is found wild in some parts of the British Isles ; 
the brown fruits are not very attractive ; vestita is a handsome, 
silvery- leaved tree from the Himalaya. 

Sorbus (Mountain Ash). — Pyrus Aucuparia, the Rowan or Moun- 
tain Ash, is the best-known tree in this group ; growing from 15 to 
35 feet or more in height, it is well known by reason of its pinnate 
leaves and handsome scarlet fruit ; it stands exposure well, and 
thrives in quite poor soils. The var. fructu luteo has yellow fruit, 
asplenifolia has cut leaves, fastigiata is of upright habit, and pendula 
has weeping branches. Pyrus americana is the American form of 
the Mountain Ash ; it is of somewhat stiffer habit than the European 
species, with larger heads of fruits ; the var. nana is useful for small 
gardens. Pyrus Sorbus, the Service Tree, is also included in this 
group, as are also such showy kinds as lanuginosa and thianschanica. 

Adenorachis (Choke-berry). — Two North American kinds, both 
bushes, are included in this group ; they are arbutifolia and nigra. 



PYXIDANTHERA BARBULATA 367 

Their attraction lies in their white flowers in May, small red or black 
fruits later, and the beautiful tints of their foHage in autumn. 

Mespilus (Medlar). — Pyrus germanica, the Common Medlar, is the 
best of this group ; it is a well-known garden tree. The tree some- 
times called Pyrus lobata is really a hybrid between germanica and 
the Common Hawthorn. 

Pyxidanthera barbulata {Pink Barren Beauty). — A pretty httle 
plant from North America (Natural Order Diapensiaceae) that grows 
only 2 inches high. The short bell-shaped flowers, white or pink, 
are borne in May and June. The foliage is somewhat Heath-like, 
and acquires a purplish tinge with exposure. It thrives best in sandy 
peat kept fairly moist, yet in a sunny spot. 

Quaking Grass. — {See Briza.) 

Quamash. — {See Camassia esculenta.) 

Quercus {Oak). — This is an important group of trees and a few 
shrubs (Natural order Cupuliferae), for it includes all the true Oaks. 
A large number of kinds have been described, which, with a few 
exceptions, are hardy in the British Isles. They are natives of Europe, 
Asia, and North America, and a few of North Africa. Many are 
important timber trees, such as the Common Oak of the British Isles 
and Europe, the Red and White Oaks of North America, and certain 
Japanese and Himalayan species. The bark in most cases is rich in 
tannin, and was at one time the most approved subject for tanning 
leather. The acorn cups of some kinds, particularly of the Valonia 
Oak (Quercus Aegilops), are used for the same purposes, whilst it 
is from the bark of Quercus Suber that the cork of commerce is 
obtained. 

General^, the Oaks require good, deep loamy soil in order to 
attain their finest proportions, but they also do fairly well in some 
soils of poorer quality. When planting Oaks for ornamental purposes, 
however, care must be taken to provide really good soil, and if the 
natural ground is poor, large holes 8 to 12 feet square and 2 to 2^ feet 
deep should be prepared for them by removing the poorer material 
and filling up with good soil. This is expensive work, but it pays 
in the end, for it must be remembered that Oaks are only beautiful 
when grown well, and that their prospects of life may be calculated 
in centuries. When the soil is good, it simply needs trenching before 
the trees are planted. All kinds must be increased by seeds, which, 
whenever possible, should be sown where the trees are to grow. 
Varieties are increased by grafting upon stocks of their respective 
types, two or three years' old wood being used for scions. Pruning 
takes the form of keeping leading shoots free from rivals, removing 



368 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

lower branches occasionally, and thinning out branches where the 
branch system is too dense. If the trees are properly looked after 
whilst they are young they will require little pruning in after hfe. 
Quercus acuta is an evergreen kind from Japan, a tree in its native 
country, but a bush here ; the glossy leaves are attractive. Ballota, 
the Sweet Acorn Oak, is a native of Spain and Portugal ; its evergreen 
leaves are easily distinguished from those of the Common Evergreen 
Oak by being rounder, shorter, and rather thicker ; the sweet acorns 
are used as an article of food in South-West Europe ; it is only 
suitable for the south and west. Quercus castaneaefolia, from the 
Caucasus and North Africa, has leaves resembhng those of the Sweet 
Chestnut ; it is vigorous and attractive. 

Quercus Cerris, the Turkey Oak, grows fairly rapidly into a large 
ornamental tree, and is distinguished by its deeply cut leaves and 
mossy acorn cups. There are many varieties, one or two with silver 
variegated leaves. Lucombeana is sometimes included as a variety, 
but it is really a hybrid between this species and Quercus Suber. 
As a rule, it keeps its leaves until late winter. Seedling forms show 
a great deal of variation, some being near the Turkey Oak and others 
near the Cork Oak. 

Quercus coccinea, the Scarlet Oak of North America, is grown for 
the sake of its brilliant autumn colouring : at that season the leaves 
are rich deep red for a period of several weeks ; conferta is a vigorous 
tree with bold foHage, native of Italy, Hungary, etc. ; cuspidata, 
from Japan, is grown for its evergreen leaves, and the var. variegata 
has handsome variegated foliage ; glauca is another evergreen 
Japanese kind, which forms a useful bush in the South of England. 
Quercus Ilex, the Evergreen or Holm Oak of the Mediterranean 
region, is a valuable evergreen tree. It gives excellent results over a 
considerable part of England, and is a good tree for the maritime 
counties. Few trees are better suited for blocking out unsightly 
objects, whilst it forms a handsome specimen tree, and also grows 
into a good hedge, standing clipping well. It is difficult to transplant, 
and must be planted permanently when quite small. May is a good 
time to plant. 

Quercus macranthera, from Armenia, is grown for its large hand- 
some leaves. Mirbeckii, a sub-evergreen from Spain, Portugal, and 
North Africa, is a very handsome species with large leaves ; it is 
suitable for a lawn: 

Quercus pedunculata, the Common Oak, and sessihflora, the Dur- 
mast Oak, are our two British kinds. Both form handsome trees, 
and are too well known to require further recommendation : there 



RAMONDIA 369 

are numerous varieties of both. Rubra, the Red Oak of North 
America, is a vigorous tree with large decorative leaves ; the var. 
aurea has golden leaves. 

Quercus Suber, the Cork Oak, should be planted in gardens in the 
South of England, for its evergreen leaves and corky bark are always 
interesting. Velutina, var. rubrifolia, is perhaps the largest-leaved of 
all Oaks, for the leaves are sometimes 13 inches long and 8 inches 
wide ; it is called the Champion Oak, and is a native of North 
America. 

Ramondia. — Pretty little plants, natives of the South of Europe, 
and belonging to the Gloxinia family (Gesneraceae), that form a rosette 
of broad crinkled hairy leaves, and have violet-hke flowers on stems 
a few inches high in June. They should be planted in a shady crevice 
in the rock garden flat against the rock to prevent water lodging in 
the centre of the crowns ; a compost of loam and leaf-soil with 
sand is suitable. They are increased by division in September, 
or by seed sown as soon as ripe or in spring. The chief kinds are : 
Ramondia (Jankaea) Heldreichii, blue ; pyrenaica, violet-purple ; 
pyrenaica alba, white ; and Nathaliae, deep purple. All are charm- 
ing flowers. 

Rampion.— (S^(2 Phyteuma.) 

Ranunculus {Buttercup). — An extensive group of plants (Natural 
Order Ranunculaceae), natives for the most part of Europe and 
x\sia, one or two occurring in New Zealand. The different kinds 
vary considerably, for some are troublesome weeds, while others are 
handsome border flowers. In addition, some are delightful alpine 
plants. For the bog and water garden some of the kinds are well 
suited, but most popular of all are the tuberous-rooted florists' varieties, 
which were at one time the pride of the garden, but are now not so 
much grown. Ranunculus aconitifolius flore pleno (Fair Maids of 
France), bearing double white flowers in May and June, grows from 
18 to 24 inches high, and is a delightful plant for the waterside, alpes- 
tris, from the Pyrenees, is a rock garden plant, some 5 or 6 inches 
high, and bears somewhat large white blossoms in June, their beauty 
being enhanced by the cluster of yellow stamens in the centre ; it 
needs deep loamy soil in which leaf-soil and grit are freely mixed, 
and in common with most other kinds must not suffer from lack of 
moisture in summer. Amplexicaulis is a handsome, grey-leaved, 
white-flowered kind that is at its best in May ; it grows 10 or 12 
inches high, and offers no difficulty in moist soil. A charming alpine 
is found in glacialis, quite a dwarf plant, with attractive deep green 
leaves and white flowers in June ; it needs a cool spot and a soil of 

Y 



370 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

loam, leaf-soil, and grit. Ranunculus Lingua is an attractive marsh 
plant, growing 2 to 3 feet high, and bearing yellow blooms in summer. 
An attractive and easily grown kind is gramineus, with narrow leaves 
and bright yellow blooms in April ; it grows about 12 inches high. 
Others worthy of mention are : parnassifolius and pyrenaeus, from 
the European Alps, bearing large, white blooms in May and needing 
cool, gritty loamy soil ; and Seguieri, another Alpine, only about 
4 inches high, bearing white flowers in May. 

The florists' varieties of Ranunculus asiaticus are usually referred 
to under the heads of Persian, French, and Turban varieties. In 
the Persian the flowers are as regularly imbricated as a show Dahlia, 
and the colours vary from pure white, through various shades of 
pink, yellow, orange, scarlet, and crimson, to almost black. The 
small curious-shaped tubers should be planted in the autumn 2 inches 
deep in sandy loam, and need to be protected from sharp frost, or 
they may be planted in early spring. The proper way is so to arrange 
the roots that the claws are placed downwards, and to cover them 
with about 2 inches of soil. It is advisable to lift the roots when 
the leaves have faded and store them until planting time. The 
French varieties are of stronger growth, with equally showy flowers, 
while the Turban kinds with less formal flowers are earlier in bloom- 
ing than the other two. The Ranunculus may be raised from seed 
sown in boxes of sandy soil in March. 

Red Hot Poker Plant. — {See Kniphofia aloides.) 

Rehmannia.' — Tlie kind chiefly grown is Rehmannia angulata, a 
Chinese plant of comparatively recent introduction (Natural Order 
Scrophulariaceae). It is a herbaceous perennial, and produces spikes 
to a height of 4 feet, which from June to August bear Foxglove- 
like flowers of rosy-purple colour with yellow throat. It is largely 
grown for greenhouse decoration, but will thrive out-of-doors in a 
warm, sheltered spot in the southern part of the country. The var. 
Pink Perfection is without the purplish tone of the typical kind. 
A distinct species, less showy and dwarf cr in habit, is Chinensis, with 
blush-coloured flowers having dark markings. The Rehmannias ma}' 
be divided in spring, or seeds sown at that season under glass to 
produce flowering plants the following summer. They thrive • in 
ordinary, well-drained sandy loam with which a little leaf- soil should 
be mixed. 

Reseda {Mignonette). — Of the several perennial species of Reseda 
(Natural Order Resedaceae) the only one of any account as a border 
plant is Reseda glauca, with glaucous foliage and spikes of whitish 
flowers during the summer months. It is native of Europe. An 




RHODODENDRON PURPUREUM ELEGANS 



^ 



RHAMNUS 371 

annual kind, however, occupies a foremost position among flowers 
of this class. This is the fragrant Mignonette (Reseda odorata). 
By a process of selection several varieties have been obtained with 
creamy white, red, and yellow flowers. The Mignonette will thrive 
in ordinary garden soils, except those deficient in lime, which must 
be added either in the shape of old mortar rubble or lime itself. The 
seed should be sown outside during the month of April and the 
soil made firm. 

Rest Harrow.— (5<?(? Ononis.) 

Retinospora.— (SfJC CuPRESSUS.) 

Rhamnus. — Numerous hardy shrubs are found in this group of 
the Natural Order Rhamnaceae. Several species have considerable 
economic value, but very few are of any decorative importance. 
They are widely distributed through Europe, including the British 
Isles, Asia, and North America, and are easily grown. Ordinary garden 
soil suffices for successful cultivation, and propagation is most easily 
practised by sowing seeds as soon as ripe, or in the following Feb- 
ruary, in boxes or pots of light loamy soil in a frame or greenhouse. 
Regular pruning is unnecessary, but when severe cutting back is 
required it should be done in March. The flowers are in no case 
showy, but in several instances the black fruits are attractive. The 
following species are of interest : Alaternus is a large-growing ever- 
green bush from South-West Europe, with oval or oblong leaves i inch 
to 2 inches long ; it grows at least 10 feet high, and as far through, and 
can be used in shrubberies or as isolated specimens ; the var. macu- 
lata has golden variegated leaves, and variegata has leaves margined 
with silver. The latter variety is difficult to transplant. Cathartica, 
the common Buckthorn of our hedgerows, is a spiny, deciduous bush, 
sometimes 15 or 20 feet high ; its black berries are conspicuous in 
September. If desired, it can be used as a hedge plant. Frangula, 
the Alder Buckthorn, is a native bush or small tree up to 20 feet 
or so high ; its bark has laxative properties, but it is chiefly valued 
on account of the wood being very valuable for charcoal, used in the 
better qualities of smokeless gunpowder. Grown for this purpose, it 
should be planted in large plantations and treated as coppice. Pur- 
shiana is the source of the drug Cascara Sagrada. It is a Californian 
tree, between 20 and 40 feet high, with deciduous leaves, tiny greenish 
flowers, and black fruits. The bark is removed from the branches 
in spring, dried, and ground to powder ; it is then used for its laxa- 
tive properties. It grows well in this country, and the drug has been 
prepared from English-grown bark. Cuttings of young shoots may 
be rooted in a warm frame during summer. 



372 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Rheum (Rhubarb). — Natives principally of the temperate parts 
of Asia. The Common Rhubarb (Rheum Rhaponticum) is a well- 
known plant, and apart from its economic value, a decidedly orna- 
mental one. It belongs to the Natural Order Polygonaceae, and is 
native of temperate Asia. There are, however, others which surpass 
it in decorative value, notably Alexandrae, with small compact 
tufted leaves, and large pale yellow bracts, which are disposed up 
the flower stem, and form a very striking feature in early summer. 
Collinianum has very large leaves and spikes of bright crimson flowers ; 
Emodii, large red-veined leaves and spikes of whitish flowers ; 
officinale, one of the sources of Turkey Rhubarb, possesses very large 
leaves and small greenish flowers ; palmatum, has very deeply cut 
leaves with whitish flowers ; while in palmatum tanghuticum the 
blossoms are of rich red tint, and produce a striking effect. All the 
Rheums can be readily increased by division or seed, and will thrive 
in ordinary garden soil. 

Rhodanthe. — (See Helipterum.) 

Rhododendron. — This (which belongs to the Natural Order 
Ericaceae) is at the same time one of the most beautiful and important 
groups of shrubs, for not only is almost every species a showy flower- 
ing plant, but large numbers of hybrids and varieties have originated 
which are popular ever5^where where plants of the Heather family 
thrive. Only one adverse criticism can be made, that being the 
general dishke of the Rhododendrons to lime, which makes it impossible 
to cultivate any, except a very few kinds, in places where lime is pre- 
sent in the soil to any appreciable extent. The head-quarters of the 
family was at one time considered to be the Sikkim Himalaya, whence 
the late Sir Joseph Hooker introduced many lovely kinds about the 
middle of last century. Recent explorations in Central and Western 
China have, however, revealed the fact that China contains a great 
many more kinds than the Himalaya. Then some are found in Japan, 
North America, Java, and Europe. 

In a genus or group containing about 200 species we naturally 
expect to find considerable variation in habit of growth, and this is 
the case with the Rhododendron. Some are of tree-like proportions, 
whilst others rise but a few inches above the ground. The majority 
are found in moist, peaty, or loamy soil, but some grow in swamps 
and others are epiphytes, finding their homes between the branches 
of trees and growing freely wherever decayed leaves and other humus 
can collect. Some kinds are hardy throughout the greater part of 
the British Isles, whereas others may only be grown successfully out- 
of-doors in the milder counties, a cold house being required elsewhere. 



RHODODENDRON 373 

The majority of these commence to grow early and are injured by late 
frosts rather than by winter cold. Then there is another set of sub- 
tropical kinds from the Malaya, which can only be grown in warm 
greenhouses. 

As a rule, Rhododendrons thrive most satisfactorily in light loam 
or peaty soil which is naturally moist but well drained. They will, 
however, grow in quite heavy soil, providing lime is absent. As the 
roots are fine and fibrous, they bind the soil into a compact mass, 
and are amongst the most convenient plants we have for transplant- 
ing. Autumn and spring are the best times to transplant, but it is 
possible to carry on the work during every month of the year pro- 
viding ordinary care is exercised. As the best roots are usually near 
the surface of the soil deep planting must be avoided, and to keep 
the roots moist provide a surface dressing of leaves. Should old 
plants show signs of becoming weak they may be invigorated by being 
watered with cow-manure water two or three times during the growing 
season. A point to remember during transplanting is that the new 
soil must be made quite firm about the roots, otherwise a difficulty 
will be experienced in keeping them moist. 

Several methods of propagation are adopted. Many of the species 
and all new varieties are raised from seed. This should be sown thinly 
on the surface of sandy peat made firm in pans or boxes. Cover with 
sheets of glass and brown paper until germination takes place. Gradu- 
ally inure to light and air, and when the seedlings can be handled 
prick them of^ in a prepared bed in a cold frame, i inch apart each 
way. Many of the smaller-growing sorts are easily increased by cut- 
tings of short, half-ripe shoots taken during July or August and 
inserted in sandy soil in a close and warm frame. Then the large- 
growing kinds and most of the hybrids are increased by grafting or 
by layers. Grafting takes place under glass in February, March, and 
April, each kind being grafted upon seedling stocks of the species to 
which it is closely related. The kind of graft known as " saddle " 
is used, and the plants are kept in a close, warm, and shaded frame 
until the union is complete. 

Pruning of young plants is necessary to ensure a sturdy founda- 
tion. This must, however, be done early so that the plants do not 
waste time in making growth which will need to be removed eventually. 
Therefore remove the ends of young shoots whilst they are quite soft, 
and a further set of shoots will be formed in summer. Pruning in 
later life consists of regulating the size and shape of bushes, cutting 
down " leggy " plants, and removing the flower-heads before seeds 
can form. When a vigorous cutting back into old wood is necessary, 



374 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

it must be done in early April, for by sacrificing the season's blooms 
a longer flowering period is gained. Pruning at other times must 
be done as soon as the flowers fade. 

There are two well-marked groups of Rhododendron. One group, 
of which the majority of kinds are deciduous, was at one time known 
as Azalea, the remaining one being Rhododendron. The difference 
was made in the first instance by reason of certain of the earlier-known 
kinds of the former group having but five stamens to each flower, 
whereas in the group known as Rhododendron each flower had ten 
stamens. Subsequent introductions, however, proved that these 
features could not be rehed upon, and Rhododendron is now applied 
to all kinds. For garden purposes, however, Azalea will always 
remain. 

Azalea. — The best-known kinds in this group are the Indian Azalea 
(Rhododendron indicum), the Ghent Azaleas (hybrids from various 
North American and one Caucasian species), and the. Mollis Azaleas 
(Rhododendron sinense). Rhododendron indicum is a well-known 
evergreen greenhouse plant, which is found in many single- and 
double-flowered varieties, the blossoms varying in colour from white 
to pink, salmon-pink, rose, and deep red. Vast quantities are grown 
in Holland every 3^ear to supply the Continental and Enghsh markets. 
They thrive most satisfactorily in a quite cool greenhouse on a moist, 
ash-covered stage. A few of the hardier varieties are grown out-of- 
doors in Cornwall. The small-flowered variety amoenum is hardier 
than the rest ; it gives very good results out-of-doors in the neigh- 
bourhood of London. The variety known as amoenum splendens is 
an improvement, the flowers being a brighter red. Rhododendron 
Kaempferi is sometimes given as a variety of indicum, though now 
considered distinct ; it is a native of the mountains of Japan and like 
amoenum in habit and in size and shape of flowers ; the colour of the 
flowers varies from reddish-purple to brick-red. It may be grown 
out-of-doors about London. 

The Ghent Azaleas are hybrids between the North American 
Rhododendron calendulaceum and nudiflorum and the Caucasian 
Rhododendron flavum. They may be procured in a wide range of 
colours from white to pink, yellow to orange, and scarlet to red. 
Few plants flower more profusely or exhibit such a range of delicate 
colouring. Moreover, the flowers are deliciously fragrant, and the 
plants quite hardy. The Mollis group is made up of forms of the 
Chinese and Japanese Rhododendron sinense, crossed with the Ghent 
varieties. The flowers are, as a rule, larger and more uniform in 
outline. They exhibit a wide range of delicate colouring, and are 





FLOWERS OF THE FLORISTS- 
RANUNCULUS 



REHMANNIA ANGULATA, GROWING 
ON TOP OF W^ALL 





I OR THE BOG GARDEN 
(RODGERSIA PODOPHYLLA) 



A WHITE-STEMMED BRAMBLE 
(RUBUS BIFLORUS) 



RHODODENDRON 375 

very free-flowering. The flowers are borne a week or two in advance 
of those of the Ghent kinds, and are sometimes injured by late spring 
frosts. The various kinds are very popular for forcing, and large 
numbers are grown on the Continent for that purpose alone. Other 
useful kinds in the Azalea group are Vaseyi, with white and pink 
flowers ; rhombicum, with reddish-purple flowers ; occidentale and 
arborescens, with white or pink flowers ; and the white-flowered 
viscosum, which blooms in July nearly a month after the Ghent 
kinds are over. 

Evergreen Rhododendrons suitable for the milder counties and for 
indoors elsewhere. — Rhododendron arboreum is a Himalayan species 
which in Cornwall sometimes attains a height of 35 feet with a trunk 
12 to 15 inches in diameter. The flowers vary from rich crimson to 
pink and white ; as a rule, they are bx)rne in shapely compact heads. 
The varieties with a silvery under surface to the leaves are often 
the best kinds. Many hybrids from it and other species have been 
raised in Cornish gardens. Rhododendron Griffithianum (sometimes 
called Aucklandii) is a handsome kind with large white flowers, some- 
times five inches across. It has been used largely by the hybridist, 
and there are many very showy kinds suitable for the milder counties. 
Beauty of Tremough, pink ; Gill's Triumph, red ; and Glory of 
Penjerrick, red, are specially worthy of note. Rhododendron cam- 
pylocarpum, although succeeding in sheltered places about London, 
gives better results farther south and west ; its yellow flowers, each 
2 inches or more across, are its special attraction. 

Rhododendron ciliatum, a bush 4 to 5 feet high, is famous for its 
profusion of white pink-flushed flowers ; argenteum is a noble Hima- 
layan plant, forming a bush quite 15 feet high, with large leaves, 
sometimes a foot long, and immense heads of large creamy-white 
flowers produced in February and March. Falconeri is also a magni- 
ficent bush, its leaves are often more than a foot long and 6 inches 
wide, covered beneath with rusty down ; the creamy-white flowers 
are in very large shapely heads. Other useful kinds are found in 
barbatum, glaucum, Thomsoni, cinnabarinum, and the rich red 
hybrid Shilsoni. 

Evergreen Rhododendrons suitable for general planting. — Although 
numerous species are available for this purpose, they are usually 
neglected for the sake of the many garden hybrids which have 
been raised by crossing such hardy, vigorous kinds as the North 
American catawbiense, and the European ponticum with the more 
tender Himalayan sorts. Those which approach most closely to 
catawbiense usually bloom in June, and are recognised by their dense, 



376 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

shapely inflorescences, whereas those which more closely resemble 
the Himalayan species often bloom in April and early May, whilst 
in many instances their trusses of bloom are rather loose. 

Hundreds of such varieties are to be obtained, and of them a 
select list is appended : Auguste van Geert, large truss, reddish-purple ; 
Baroness Schroeder, white, finely spotted ; B. de Bruin, scarlet ; 
Broughtonianum, vigorous plant, fine truss of rosy-red flowers ; Charles 
Bagley, cherry-red ; Charlie Waterer, scarlet, light centre ; C. S. 
Sargent, scarlet ; Doncaster, bright scarlet ; Duchess of Connaught, 
white, with lemon-yellow markings ; fastuosum flore pleno, mauve, 
semi-double ; Frederick Waterer, crimson ; Corner Waterer, large 
white ; H. H. Hunnewell, crimson ; King of Purples, purple ; Lady 
Clementine Mitford, peach ; Lady Grey Egerton, French grey ; 
Madame Carvalho, white ; Marchioness of Lansdowne, rose, with 
dark spots ; Michael Waterer, scarlet ; Minnie, white ; Mrs. Holford, 
salmon-pink ; Mrs. S. Simpson, white ; The Queen, white. 

Amongst other species and hybrids the following well deserve 
attention : Augustinii, Central China, mauve ; campanulatum, 
Himalaya, lilac, early ; caucasicum, Caucasus, dwarf, rose ; dauricum 
North Asia, rosy-purple, January ; ferrugineum, " Rose des Alpes," 
rose, Alps, June ; Fortunei, China, fragrant, a large bush ; Kewense, 
a large-flowered fragrant hybrid ; lepidotum, dwarf, red-purple, 
Himalaya ; Manglesii, white, a hybrid, large trusses ; nobleanum, 
an early flowering red-flowered hybrid, very suitable for forcing ; 
ponticum, a vigorous purple-flowered species suitable for under- 
growth ; intricatum, a new Chinese, violet-flowered kind, suitable 
for the rock garden ; moupinense, a compact growing, new kind with 
white flowers ; racemosum, a charming plant 2 to 3 feet high, with 
small whitish or pink flowers, borne from axillary buds ; Yunnanense, 
white with brown spots, 3 to 4 feet, or more high. 

Rhodothamnus Chamaecistus is a dwarf Ericaceous plant from 
the Austrian Alps. It is one of the few plants belonging to the Heath 
family which thrive on a limestone foundation, and its correct place 
is the rock garden. Of shrubby growth, it is usually less than 9 inches 
high, with tiny evergreen leaves and flat pink and white flowers 
I inch across, which have something of the appearance of Rhododen- 
dron flowers. Plant in crevices between large stones in light loamy 
soil, increase by seeds or cuttings, and remove the flower-heads as 
soon as the flowers fade, leaving sufficient only for the production of 
a few seeds if such are required. 

Rhodotypos kerrioides. — This plant is sometimes called the 
White-flowered Kerria, and it belongs to the Rose family (Rosaceae). 



RHUS 377 

It is a native of China and Japan, and forms a shapely bush 3 to 4 feet 
high with Kerria-hke leaves and white flowers i to ij inches across. 
Planted in ordinary good loamy soil, it grows vigorously and blossoms 
freely in May. Increase is by cuttings of young shoots inserted in 
a warm frame during summer, and pruning is limited to thinning out 
the old branches after flowering. 

Rhubarb. — (See Rheum.) 

Rhus {Sumach). — This group (Natural Order Anacardiaceae) is 
composed of European, Asiatic, and North American trees and shrubs 
which have often ornamental leaves and poisonous sap. They are 
planted for the sake of their summer and autumn effect, for in addi- 
tion to the leaves being of a showy character earlier in the year, they 
often colour brilliantly in autumn. Planted in loamy soil or even in 
that of a Hght character, they usually give good results, autumn 
colour in some cases being most brilliant where the soil is poor. Pro- 
pagation is by seeds or root cuttings, the latter being made from 
pieces ^ to J inch diameter and 4 inches long, in spring. Little pruning 
is necessary except when the plants are grown for a special purpose, 
such as very large foliage. They are then cut down to the ground 
each year. 

Rhus Canadensis from North America is a dwarf-spreading bush 
with three parted leaves which colour brilliantly in autumn ; coti- 
noides, sometimes called the " Chittam Wood," is a native of the 
Eastern United States, at least 12 feet high, and its oval leaves change 
to brilliant orange-scarlet in autumn. Cotinus is the Venetian Sumach 
of Southern Europe, and is recognised by its bushy habit and broadly 
oval leaves, also by the curious plumose inflorescences, the slender 
stalks of which remain after the flowers fall. Their misty appearance 
has suggested the name of Smoke Bush. 

Rhus Toxicodendron should be known, to be avoided. Its branches 
are often of semi-scandent habit, and they are clothed with large 
three-parted leaves which take on very bright colours in autumn. 
The plant is, however, very poisonous to the touch of many people, 
but not to all ; it is a native of North America and Japan, and 
known as Poison Oak and Poison Ivy. Trichocarpa, from China and 
Japan, turns scarlet in autumn. Typhina is the Staghorn Sumach 
of the Eastern United States ; it forms very large handsome leaves 
up to 3 feet long, and is sometimes cut hard back each year to 
encourage additional vigour ; laciniata is a pretty cut-leaved variety. 
With this species may be classed Rhus glabra and its variety laciniata. 
They are much alike except that the former has hairy and the latter 
glabrous leaves. 



378 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Rhynchospermum. — {See Trachelospermum.) 

Ribbon Grass. — {See Phalaris.) 

Ribes {Currant). — This group (Natural Order Saxifragaceae) is 
an important one owing to the fact that it contains a number of 
decorative flowering kinds, and also several important fruits. The 
fruits are the Gooseberries and Red, Black, and White Currants. The 
garden Goosebeiries have been raised by the careful cultivation and 
selection of varieties of the common wild Ribes Grossularia, a spiny 
bush found in many parts of the Northern Hemisphere. As a wild 
plant its fruits are small and of little value, but everyone is familiar 
with the fine fruits of the garden. Similar remarks apply to the Cur- 
rants, for the fine cultivated kinds have originated from various wild 
types. Thus the Black Currants are the progeny of Northern Europe 
and North Asiatic Ribes nigrum. The Red Currants owe their origin 
to Ribes rubrum, a native of the Northern Hemisphere, whilst the 
White Currants are fine forms of Ribes rubrum var. album. In this 
work, however, we have little to do with the fruiting kinds, but those 
which produce showy flowers claim our attention. They are of the 
easiest cultivation, thriving well in moderately good loamy soil, and 
being multiplied by cuttings of ripened wood 9 to 12 inches long in- 
serted in the open ground during autumn or winter. No systematic 
pruning is necessary, though it is a good plan to look over the plants 
every second or third year and remove a few of the older branches to 
make room for young shoots from the base. The work must be done 
as soon as the flowers fade. 

Ribes alpinum, a native of the Northern Hemisphere, is not a 
showy kind, but it is worth growing on account of its close, compact 
habit and its ability to withstand a considerable amount of shade ; 
the var. aureum has golden leaves. Ribes aureum, sometimes called 
the Missouri or Buffalo Currant, is a native of Western North America, 
and is an important April and May flowering shrub. Growing from 
3 to 5 feet high, it bears deliciously fragrant, deep yellow blooms in 
racemes 2 to 3 inches long. There are several varieties, such as the 
early-flowering praecox, the loose-racemed tenuiflorum, and the 
rich-coloured and free-flowering aurantiacum. The last-named is the 
best of all ; it grows about 3 feet high. Ribes bracteosum from the 
Western United States forms a bush 4 to 5 feet high, remarkable for 
its long pendent racemes of yellowish flowers ; cereum bears small 
whitish flowers ; and lacustre, brownish blooms. 

Ribes sanguineum, a native of California, etc., is known under the 
common name of Flowering Currant, and is easily one of the finest 
shrubs of the garden. Its rose, pink, or reddish flowers, borne in 



RICHARDIA 379 

pendent racemes, are very conspicuous during late March and early 
April. There are numerous varieties, all of which are showy : albidum 
is recognised by its white rose-tinged flowers ; atrorubens, or splendens, 
as it is sometimes called, by its rich red blooms ; carneum by flesh- 
coloured blossoms ; flore pleno by deep red double flowers ; whilst 
Davidianum, glutinosum, and malvaceum are other distinct forms. 
Albidum is somewhat difficult to keep in good health, and does not 
appear to be a very long-lived plant. Ribes Gordonianum is a hybrid 
between aureum and sanguineum ; it is intermediate in character, 
but is no improvement on either. Ribes speciosum, the Fuchsia- 
flowered Gooseberry, is a native of California and a very beautiful 
shrub, with brown spiny branches which bear, from axillary buds in 
early spring, long cylindrical scarlet flowers with long exserted 
stamens. It is a little tender, however. 

Richardia {Arum Lily). — The South African Arum Lily (Richardia 
africana or aethiopica, as it is often called), which belongs to the 
Natural Order Aroideae, is usually regarded as a greenhouse plant, and 
in most parts of the country it must be looked upon as such. In 
the mildest districts, such as in the extreme south-west of the country, 
it withstands the winter out-of-doors, and then forms a striking 
feature if planted at the edge of a pond or some similar position. The 
kinds with yellow or yellowish flowers, namely albo maculata, EUiot- 
tiana, and Pentlandii, go to rest during the winter. They may be 
started into growth in pots in the greenhouse, and when all danger 
from frost is over be planted out in a sheltered spot in good soil ; 
they must be lifted in autumn before sharp frosts set in. They are, 
however, not so well adapted for outdoor planting as the common 
kind. 

Ricinus communis {Castor Oil Plant). — This, which belongs to 
the Spurge family (Euphorbiaceae), is mainly employed for sub-tropical 
bedding during summer. From seed sown in warmth in early spring, 
the young plants make rapid progress, and become v/ell established in 
5-inch pots by the bedding-out season. Then, if planted in some 
rich soil, they will soon reach a height of 5 to 6 feet, the stout erect 
stems being plentifully furnished with large, handsome lobed leaves. 
There are several varieties with variously coloured leaves : africanus, 
light green ; Cambodgiensis, dark crimson ; Gibsonii, bronze ; san- 
guineous, dark stems, reddish leaves ; and Zanzibarensis, green. 

Robin ia {False Acacia) is an important class of trees and large- 
growing shrubs belonging to the Pea family (Leguminosae). They 
are of North American origin, and the tree kinds are known as Locusts 
or False Acacias. In America the hard wood of the commoner species 



380 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

is esteemed for many kinds of work, being specially favoured for 
posts on account of its great durability. All thrive in loamy soil, 
but whilst some are increased by seeds, others require to be grafted 
and others again raised from root cuttings. Pruning is necessary to 
shape the trees, and attention must be paid to keeping the leading 
shoots free from rivals. 

Robinia hispida, the Rose Acacia of the Southern United States, 
forms a loose bush, 8 to 12 feet high, with bristly branches, spreading 
by suckers ; the rose-coloured flowers are as large as those of a garden 
Pea, and are borne in clusters of four to six. Better than the type, 
however, is the var. inermis ; it is of more compact habit, and bears 
larger racemes of flowers. The typical kind is increased by root cut- 
tings, and the variety by grafting upon stocks or roots of the Common 
Robinia Pseudacacia. Robinia neo-mexicana, from the Rocky Moun- 
tains, is a medium-sized tree bearing dense racemes of pinkish flowers 
in June and again in August. Kelseyi is a new pink-flowered species 
which forms a bush or low tree. It is very beautiful, and well worth 
consideration. Increase by seeds or by grafting. 

Robinia Pseudacacia is the best known of all ; it forms a moderate- 
sized or large tree, and can be used with effect both as an isolated 
specimen and as an avenue or street tree. Its attractions are its 
elegant pinnate leaves and dense racemes of white flowers, which are 
borne freely in May and June. There are many varieties, of which 
angusti folia, with very pretty leaflets ; aurea, with golden leaves ; 
bella-rosea and Decaisneana, with rose-coloured flowers ; gigantea, 
of very robust habit ; fastigiata, with the habit of a Lombardy Poplar ; 
monophylla, with few leaflets ; and robusta Vignei, are amongst the 
most distinct. Robinia viscosa, the " Clammy Locust " of the 
Southern United States, may be distinguished by its viscid in- 
florescences and warted or burred trunk. Its flowers have a pinkish 
tinge. 

Rock Cress.— (5^^ Arabis.) 

Rock Rose. — (See CiSTUS.) 

Rock Spray. — (See Cotoneaster.) 

Rocket. — (See Hesperis matronalis.) 

Rodgersia.- — A small group of bog plants (Natural Order Saxi- 
fragaceae) with very handsome leafage. They are Rodgersia aesculi- 
folia, large bold leaves, somewhat resembling those of the Horse 
Chestnut, and spikes of white Spiraea-like flowers in summer. Rodgersia 
pinnata has handsome bronze leaves and white blossoms ; and in 
podophylla the foliage is of purplish-bronze tint. They grow from 
2 to 3 feet in height, and can be increased by division in spring. 



ROMNEYA COULTERI 381 

Romneya Coulteri, belonging to Papaveraceae, is sometimes 
called the Tree Poppy on account of its bushy habit and close relation- 
ship to the Poppies. Although in reality a shrub, it is often treated 
as a herbaceous plant, for the branches are killed to the ground line 
in winter in many places. The rootstock is, however, capable of 
sending up new and vigorous shoots year after year, which often bear 
larger flowers than those produced from older wood. It should be 
planted in well-drained loamy soil at the foot of a wall with a south 
or west exposure, and except in the milder parts of the country, 
it is a good plan to cover the rootstock in winter with cinders or some 
other protective material. Watch the young shoots in spring and 
protect them from slugs and frost. They may then be expected to 
attain a height of 5 or 6 feet and bear showy glaucous leaves and 
handsome white flowers 6 inches across. Propagation is easily effected 
by root cuttings, sections 4 inches or so long being taken in spring 
and inserted in sandy soil indoors. There is a second species called 
Romneya trichocalyx. The most marked difference from the other 
species is the hairy calyx of the latter. Both are natives of California. 

Romulea. — Pretty little bulbous plants, with Crocus-like flowers 
during the spring months. They are native of Southern Europe and 
belong to the Iris family (Iridaceae). They require well-drained 
sandy soil and a warm, sunny position. The chief kinds are : Bulbo- 
codium, blue and yellow ; Clusii, lavender ; Columnae, white ; and 
speciosa, rosy- violet. They should be planted in early autumn. 

Rosa. — This important group (Natural Order Rosaceae) includes 
a very large number of species or wild kinds, in addition to all the 
garden Roses. The species are, as a rule, characterised by shrubby 
habit of growth, pinnate leaves, with well-developed stipules at the 
base, and spiny stems. There are, however, one or two exceptions 
in which all these characters are not present. They are widely dis- 
tributed throughout temperate Europe, Asia, and North America, 
several being included in the British Flora. The majority are hardy 
in the British Isles, but the wild kinds are frequently ignored, prefer- 
ence being given to the varieties which have been raised by the 
intercrossing of several species. 

Although the value of the Rose is simply decorative in this country, 
a few varieties are of considerable commercial importance in South 
and South-East Europe and Persia on account of the oil which is 
extracted from the flowers, known in commerce as Attar or Otto 
of Roses. The principal kinds employed for the purpose are gallica 
and vars. damascena and centifolia. The fruits of some kinds, such 
as the Japanese rugosa, are sometimes used as a conserve, but. 



382 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

as a rule, they are more highly appreciated from a decorative 
standpoint. 

The garden Roses are divided into a number of well-marked 
groups, such as Hybrid Perpetual, Tea, Hybrid Tea, Noisette, 
Bourbon, Rambler, Polyantha or Multiilora, Wichuraiana, Scotch, 
and Rugosa. 

The Hybrid Perpetuals originated, it is said, by crossing the Prov- 
ence Roses or forms of Rosa gallica with the Damask Rose (Rosa 
damascena), and perhaps some other species. The earlier varieties 
appeared between 1837 ^"^ 1840. and additions have been made regu- 
larly until the present date. They arc characterised by fine, fragrant, 
shapely flowers, which vary in colour from white to pink, rose, red, and 
crimson. There is usually a big burst of flowers in June and early 
July, and a second and much smaller crop in August and September. 
They are generally increased by grafting or budding upon Briar or 
Manetti stocks, the former being the most lasting. Rich loamy soil 
gives the best results, and pruning is carried out in March. Some 
of the best varieties are : Captain Hayward, light red ; Charles 
Lefebvre, crimson ; Commandant Felix Faure, crimson and red ; 
Dr. Andry, bright crimson ; Duke of Edinburgh, scarlet-crimson ; 
Fisher Holmes, crimson with red shading ; Frau Karl Druschki, 
white ; General Jacqueminot, bright red ; Hugh Dickson, crimson- 
red ; Mrs. John Laing, pink ; Mrs. R. G. Sharman Crawford, rose- 
pink ; Ulrich Brunner, rose-red. 

The Tea Roses have originated from the China or Monthly Rose, 
Rosa indica. The varieties are characterised by delicate colouring and 
exquisite fragrance. Most of the kinds are in their greatest beauty 
during the expanding stage, the fully open flowers being semi-double 
and loose in appearance. They have a very long flowering period, 
for they commence blossoming in June and are only stopped by frost. 
In the neighbourhood of London it often happens that flowers can 
be gathered at or about Christmas. It is, however, the most delicate 
group, and the branches are frequently cut back by frost. In cold 
districts it is usual to place a little bracken or a few branches of ever- 
greens amongst the plants during a cold period. Although usually 
budded on briars, the best plants are often those raised from cuttings, 
which root readily on a sheltered border if inserted in late September. 
Twelve good varieties are : Anna Olivier, pale rose and buff ; Gloire 
de Dijon (climbing), salmon-buff and yellow ; G. Nabonnand, pale 
rose shades ; Harry Kirk, sulphur-yellow ; Lady Hillingdon, yellow, 
fawn shading ; Lady Roberts, apricot and yellow ; Madame Antoine 
Mari, white, shaded rose ; Madame Hoste, cream-yellow ; Mrs. 




AUTUMN ROSES AND MICHAELMAS 
DAISIES 



iiaii< 
ff 





ONE OF THE CONEKLOWERS 
IRUDBECKIA PURPUREA) 




ROSE GLOIRE DE DIJON ON 
V/ALL TRELLIS 



A BEAUTIFUL BRAMBI.l. KUBUS 
DELICIOSUSj 



ROSA 383 

Herbert Stevens, white ; Nita Welldon, white, tinged blush ; Noella 
Nabonnand, crimson (chmbing) ; W. R. Smith, blush white. 

The Hybrid Teas are a comparatively modern group, for many of 
the best kinds have appeared within the last twenty years. They 
have been raised by crossing varieties of the two former groups, 
the object being to secure the long flowering period and delicate colour- 
ing of the Tea varieties with the shapely flowers and general health 
and vigour of the Hybrid Perpetuals. This object has been attained, 
and many of the most popular garden Roses are now included in this 
group. Unfortunately some of them lack the fragrance of the parent 
varieties. They are propagated by the various methods adopted for 
other varieties, but should be raised from cuttings whenever possible. 
A modification of this group appears in v£U"ious varieties known as 
Pernetiana Roses, in the raising of which the Austrian Briar (Rosa 
lutea) and its var. bicolor were used. The rich yellow of the former 
and the brown and yellow of the latter have resulted in some very 
rich yellow and terra-cotta kinds. Among the best varieties are : 
Augustine Guinoisseau, blush white ; Caroline Testout, bright pink ; 
Duchess of Wellington, orange-yellow ; Duchess of Westminster, 
bright rose ; G. C. Waud, rose with orange tinge ; General McArthur, 
bright red ; Gustav Grunerwald, pink ; Lady Ashtown, deep pink ; 
La Tosca, blush and rose ; Madame Abel Chatenay, salmon-pink ; 
Mrs. David McKee, cream-yellow ; Pharisaer, white and salmon ; 
Prince de Bulgarie, rose and yellow shades ; Richmond, bright red. 

The Dwarf Polyantha. — Another group of Roses, which belongs 
to the China or Indica set, is that made up of the Dwarf or Baby 
Polyanthas, which, though often less than 18 inches high, form shapely 
bushes and blossom with wonderful freedom, the flowers being small, 
double, and produced in very large terminal inflorescences. There 
are white, pink, and some fine red varieties, for example : Acnnchen 
Miiller, pink ; Cecile Brunner, blush white and rose ; Jessie, bright 
red ; Leonie Lamesch, copper-red and 3^ellow ; and Mrs. W. H. 
Cutbush, deep pink. 

The Rugosa Roses have been raised by crossing the very hardy 
Rosa rugosa from Japan with various Hybrid Perpetuals. They are 
of vigorous growth, usually free flowering and fragrant, and very 
hardy ; in fact, they can be grown successfully in climates which are 
too cold for the other garden kinds. They are rather difficult to 
increase from cuttings, and are often grafted or budded upon stocks 
of Rosa rugosa. The fruits of the single sorts are showy in autumn. 
Some handsome sorts are : Blanc double de Coubert, white ; Conrad 
F. Meyer, pink ; Rose a parfum de I'Hay, dark red ; rugosa alba. 



384 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

white ; and rugosa atropurpurea, crimson ; the two last-named are 
single, and bear showy fruits. 

The Scotch Roses are cultivated forms of Rosa spinosissima, a wild 
Rose which appears in some parts as a dwarf plant but a few inches 
high or as a dense bush up to 3 feet in height with intensely spiny 
branches and usually white flowers. The varieties have single or 
double flowers in many colours, white, pink, yellow, and red all being 
represented. They are useful for planting in places where the neater 
and wilder parts of the garden meet. In this class pruning is limited 
to thinning out some of the older shoots after the flowers have fallen. 

The Noisette Roses consist of a number of very charming varieties, 
usually of climbing habit, with a pleasant fragrance. They were raised 
by crossing Rosa indica varieties with the Musk Rose (Rosa moschata). 
As a rule, they are not very hardy, and are often planted against a 
wall or in a greenhouse. \Vlien pruning these kinds thin the weak 
wood out and leave the young vigorous shoots their full length. By 
bending the branches into a horizontal position the lower buds are 
induced to break into grow^th more freely than would otherwise be 
the case. The famous Roses Mar^chal Niel and William Allen Richard- 
son belong to this group. Others are : Climbing Aim^e Vibert, white ; 
Lamarque, white, with pale yellow shading ; LTdeale, red, shaded 
with yellow ; and Reve d'Or, buff -yellow. 

The Bourbon Roses are also related to Rosa indica, the other parent 
being Rosa gallica. The varieties consist of both bush and climbing 
forms, the flowers, as a rule, being borne in considerable profusion 
and being very fragrant. The dwarf kinds should be pruned in the 
ordinary way in spring, whilst those of climbing habit should be thinned 
out instead of having the long shoots shortened. Mme. Isaac Pereire, 
rose-carmine, is one of the best varieties. 

The Moss Roses consist of a set of varieties with fragrant flowers 
which are peculiar by reason of their crested or mossy calyx. There 
are many varieties, all of which are attractive. The parent of the 
group is Rosa galhca var. muscosa. The best of the varieties are : 
Blanche Moreau, white ; Common Moss, pale rose ; Crested Moss, 
pink ; and White Bath. 

The Provence Roses are rarely seen nowadays, although their large 
flowers are perhaps more deliciously fragrant than those of any other 
kind. They include all the various forms of Rosa gallica. 

The Polyantha or MitUiflora group is made up of climbers which 
are usually of vigorous habit. The type of the group is Rosa multi- 
flora, and most of the varieties or hybrids have appeared within the 
last twenty-five years, or since the advent of the fanious Crimson 



ROSA 385 

Rambler. They flower in June and July, the blossoms appearing in 
large clusters from short growths from the side buds on the previous 
year's shoots. The chief pruning is usually practised as soon as the 
flowers fade. The old flowering shoots are then cut out, leaving the 
vigorous young branches, which generally grow freely from about 
the base. Such varieties thrive splendidly from cuttings. Some of 
the chief are : American Pillar, rose ; Blush Rambler, blush rose ; 
Crimson Rambler, bright red ; Helene, blush tinged with violet ; 
Leuchtstern, rose and white ; Mrs. F. W. Flight, deep pink ; Rubin, 
crimson-rose ; Tausendschon, rose-pink ; Tea Rambler, copper and 
pink ; Trier, white, single, perpetual flowering. 

The Wichuraiana group is made up of climbing kinds, which are 
usually of a semi-evergreen character. They form very long slender 
branches, and have been raised by crossing the Chinese and Japanese 
Rosa Wichuraiana with various garden Roses, particularly Teas and 
those of the multiflora group. They are invaluable for covering rough 
fences and banks, whilst they may also be planted at the bases of 
rough bushes and low trees over which they can spread their branches. 
Grafted on tall stems, they form very effective weeping plants. Cut- 
tings root quite easily and form the best means of increase. Pruning 
is the same as in the multiflora group. The well-known Dorothy 
Perkins is a good example of this class. All have appeared within 
the last twenty years. Among the many varieties are : Alberic 
Barbier, yellow fading to white ; Aviateur Bleriot, yellow ; Dorothy 
Perkins, rose-pink ; Excelsa, red ; Frangois Guillot, yellow, white, 
and pink ; Hiawatha, crimson ; Jersey Beauty, cream-yellow ; 
Joseph Billiard, crimson, pale centre ; Lady Godiva, blush pink ; 
Minnehaha, pink ; Rene Andre, yellow and rose ; and Shower of 
Gold, yellow. 

The Penzance Briars. — These are vigorous kinds with the leaf 
fragrance of the Sweet Briar (Rosa rubiginosa), but with a variety of 
bright-coloured flowers. They were raised by Lord Penzance by 
crossing the Sweet Briar with various garden Roses. As all are strong 
growers, they must be given plenty of room. They do not require 
regular pruning, but are improved by an occasional thinning. A 
few of the best are : Amy Robsart, rose ; Anne of Geierstein, crim- 
son-rose ; Flora Mclvor, rose- white ; Julia Mannering, pink ; Lady 
Penzance, copper and yellow ; Meg Merrilies, crimson ; and Rose 
Bradwardine, rose. 

The species of Rosa are beautiful in flower and fruit, though the 
modern varieties have quite ousted them from many gardens. Some 
kinds, however, deserve special notice, and such as Rosa moschata, 
z 



386 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

a vigorous climber with fragrant white blossoms ; alpina and its var. 
pyrenaica, red-flowered kinds with brilliant scarlet fruits; Banksiae, the 
Banksian Rose, remarkable for its wealth of yellow or cream flowers, 
in the milder counties ; bracteata, a semi-evergreen with huge white 
blossoms, suitable for warm counties ; macrophylla, with long scarlet 
fruits ; rugosa, with large flowers and Apple-like red fruits ; lutea, 
with rich yellow flowers and various other kinds, are all worth growing. 

The subject of the Rose and its cultivation is a wide one, to which 
full justice can only be done in a volume devoted to it, of which " The 
Rose Book " is one of many. Readers desiring full details on the 
cultivation of the Rose and its innumerable modern varieties are 
therefore referred to such works. 

Roscoea. — For many years the only Roscoea in cultivation was 
Roscoea purpurea (Natural Order Scitamineae), native of the Hima- 
laya. This forms a thickened rootstock, from which leafy shoots 
rise to a height of about 12 inches. Each shoot bears during the 
summer several purple flowers, of which the large-spreading lip is 
suggestive of an Orchid. The plant is quite dormant during the 
winter, and needs a warm, sheltered spot, such as a narrow border 
in front of a greenhouse or some similar position. A second species, 
hardier than the preceding, is the comparatively new Roscoea cautli- 
oides, from China ; the flowers are soft yellow and freely borne. It has 
proved to be hardy in many parts of the country, where the pre- 
caution was taken of planting the fleshy roots 5 or 6 inches deep in 
sandy loam. 

Rose, Christmas. — {See Helleborus nicer.) 

Rose, Lenten. — {See Helleborus orientalis.) 

Rose of Jericho. — {See Anastatica.) 

Rosemary. — {See Rosmarinus officinalis.) 

Rosmarinus officinalis {Rosemary), is a native of South Europe 
and belongs to the Sage family (Labiatae). It has been in cultivation 
since 1548, and is a popular garden shrub in the milder parts of the 
country, where it is grown as a specimen bush and as an informal 
hedge. Mature bushes are often 4 to 5 feet high and attractive alike 
for the small fragrant leaves and lilac or mauve flowers. The essence 
or oil of commerce, known as Rosemary oil, is obtained from this 
plant. Cuttings of young shoots can be rooted by inserting them in 
sandy soil in a close frame in summer. Pruning need not be made an 
annual task, but when the bushes appear to be getting ragged they 
may be shortened after flowering. Any ordinary garden soil suits. 
There is a golden-leaved variety known as foliis aureis ; it appears 
to be rather more tender than the typical kind. 





DUCHESS OF WELLINGTON (H.T.). 

A SPLENDID ORANGE-YELLOW 

VARIETY 



FRANCOIS COPPEE (H.T.). AN 

EXCELLENT DARK CRIMSON 

ROSE 





MAY MII.LKK (H.T.. ROSK AND 

PEACH SHADES. A FINE NEW^ 

ROSE 



A PRETTY ROSE. MRS. ALFRED 

TATE (H.T.). COPPER AND FAW^N 

SHADES 



RUBUS 387 

Royal Fern. — {See Osmunda regalis.) 

Rubus (Bramble). — This extensive group (Natural Order Rosaceae) 
includes both upright-growing and climbing shrubs which exhibit 
great diversity of habit, some being but a few inches high and others 
forming branches quite 20 feet long. The branches of many are 
armed with thorns, whilst in other cases the thorns or spines are 
reduced to mere bristles, or they may be absent altogether. The 
leaves, too, may be either simple or made up of a number of leaflets, 
whilst on some kinds they are persistent and on others deciduous. 
Several kinds are valuable garden fruits, as is instanced by the Rasp- 
berry and Blackberry, and the more recent Hailshamberry, Logan- 
berry, and Lowberry. A large number may be grown for decorative 
purposes, the group with white stems being specially valuable for 
the purpose. 

Good loamy soil should be provided, and the species may be 
increased by seeds and layers, and the varieties by the latter means. 
Branches are not layered in the ordinary way, but they are bent 
over and the points pegged down into the soil. A swelling takes 
place near the apex, which after a while emits roots and shoots. Many 
of the kinds are benefited by having the old branches removed to the 
base each year. In the case of sorts grown solely for decorative pur- 
poses it is wise to do this as soon as the young growths are a foot 
or so long, but in the case of the fruiting kinds pruning must be left 
until after the fruit has been gathered. 

The Brambles are very widely distributed in the Northern Hemi- 
sphere, Europe, Asia, and America, each country providing numerous 
species. They are, however, not confined to these Continents. Within 
the present century a very large number have been received from 
Western and Central China. A few are likely to prove useful fruiting 
plants and most of the others are of decorative worth. 

Fruiting kinds. — Rubus Idaeus, the Wild Raspberry of Western 
Asia and Europe, including the British Isles, is the parent of all the 
cultivated Raspberries. The fine fruits of the garden have been 
obtained by cultivation and selection. Rubus fruticosus, in a wide 
sense, includes all the wild Blackberries or Brambles of the British 
Isles. There are, however, numerous kinds included under this one 
heading, but no good purpose will be served by describing them here ; 
the Blackberries of gardens are usually fine selected forms. Rubus 
laciniatus, a form with finely cut leaves and large luscious fruits, 
is a popular kind, whilst the Wilson Junior Blackberry, an American 
production from the North American Rubus villosus, also produces 
large fruits. 



388 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

The Loganberry is a hybrid between a cultivated Raspberry 
and Blackberry, whilst the Lowberry has been obtained by further 
intercrossing. Rubus phoenicolasius, from China and Japan, is 
known as the Japanese Wineberry ; its bright scarlet fruits are borne 
in profusion, and they have a pleasant flavour. A peculiarity of the 
plant is the stiff, viscid bristles which appear on the branches. Rubus 
caesius is the Common Dewberry, the fruit of which in some places is 
collected for use ; the same is done with the fruits of the Cloudberry, 
Rubus Chamaemorus, and other kinds. 

Kinds with white stems. — These are so distinct and useful by reason 
of their white or glaucous stems that they are worthy of special note. 
Rubus biflorus, from the temperate Himalaya, is perhaps the most 
familiar plant ; growing 8 or lo feet high, its branches have the 
appearance of being whitewashed, from which the common name of 
" Wliite-washed Stemmed Bramble " has arisen. Amongst recent 
introductions is a variety of this, called quinquefiorus, which is more 
vigorous and striking than the type. The annual branches are often 
12 to 15 feet high, and i inch to i|- inches in diameter near the base. 
Rubus Giraldianus is, however, even more imposing, not that it is 
more vigorous, but that it is of such a good colour and distinct habit. 
A dense mass of shoots is formed from a common rootstock which 
grow erect to a height of 5 or 5| feet ; they then suddenly bend 
over and gradually grow downwards until they touch the ground. 
It is a new species from China. Rubus lasiostylus, from the same 
country, is imposing by reason of its white stems, whilst its fruits 
are large with a pleasant flavour. Other white-stemmed kinds are 
leucodermis, and thibetanus, a handsome kind of recent introduction. 

Other useful sorts. — Rubus bambusarum is an elegant Chinese 
plant, with long slender branches and three or five parted ever- 
green leaves, the leaflets being long and narrow, dark green above 
and grey beneath. It is a useful subject for planting on a pergola. 
Rubus chroosepalus, a species recently acquired from Central China, 
has evergreen, broadly ovate leaves, green above and grey beneath, 
and long slender branches. Rubus corchorifolius is a very vigorous 
kind, with tall, strong green stems bearing a few scattered spines, 
Kerria-like leaves, and conspicuous white flowers usually in pairs 
from the leaf axils in April. Introduced from China about fourteen 
years ago. 

Rubus deliciosus, from the Rocky Mountains, is a handsome bushy 
kind with white flowers as large as those of a Dog Rose ; the branches 
are not spiny, and they keep on growing and flowering for a number 
of years ; inopertus, a new Chinese kind, is remarkable for its vigorous 



RUDBECKIA 389 

branches 12 to 15 feet high, which are covered with red bark and a 
light coat of glaucous bloom, the Rose-like leaves are pretty. Lam- 
bertianus, another new Chinese species, is recognised by its long 
slender branchlets and broadly ovate or heart-shaped leaves which 
are almost evergreen ; nobilis is a showy hybrid between the Common 
Raspberry and the American odoratus, it grows 6 to 8 feet high, 
with brown stems and large, ornamental leaves ; odoratus, the Purple- 
flowered Raspberry of North America, is handsome alike by its large 
foliage and purple flowers, 2 inches across, it grows 6 to 8 feet high ; 
parvifolius, from China and Japan, is chiefly remarkable for its pro- 
fusion of bright red fruit ; Playfairianus is a vigorous Chinese plant, 
with three to five parted evergreen leaves. 

Rubus spectabilis, from California, throws up vigorous bright 
brown branches which, in April, bear showy rosy-purple flowers ; 
Thumbergii glabellus, from China, grows 12 or 15 feet high, with green, 
conspicuously angled stems and Rose-like leaves ; thyrsoideus flore 
pleno is a handsome kind, with large bunches of double- white flowers 
borne in August ; ulmifolius flore pleno is a popular and ornamental 
kind, its semi-double reddish flowers are borne with considerable 
freedom during July and August ; the var. inermis is remarkable for 
its spineless branches. 

Rudbeckia {Cone Flower).— Ea.si\y grown herbaceous perennials, 
natives of North America, and belonging to the Daisy family (Com- 
positae) ; their yellow flowers are borne during the latter part of 
summer and in early autumn. Not only do they make a good show 
in the herbaceous border, but owing to their firm, wiry stems they are 
very useful for cutting. They are readily increased by division when 
dormant. The chief kinds are : calif ornica, 6 feet ; columnaris. 
4 feet ; Golden Glow, double, 8 feet ; grandiflora, 5 feet ; laciniata, 
8 feet ; maxima, 7 feet ; speciosa (also known as Newmanni), 2 feet ; 
and subtomentosa, 4 feet. 

Rue. — {See Ruta.) 

Rue, Wall — {See Asplenium Ruta-muraria.) 

Rumex {Dock). — Most of the species of Rumex (Natural Order 
Polygonaceae) are troublesome weeds, but one of them is, if rightly 
placed, decidedly ornamental. This is the Great Water Dock (Rumex 
Hydrolapathum) ; it forms a tuft of large bold leaves on tall, upright 
stems, and is very effective in shallow water, where it can have space 
for development, as on no account must it be placed in proximity 
to choice plants. 

Ruscus is a shrubby class belonging to the Lily family (Lili- 
aceae), made up of several low-growing evergreens which bear showy 



390 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

red fruits. Three kinds are in cultivation : aculeatus, the Common 
Butcher's Broom of Europe, including the British Isles ; Hypoglossum, 
from Southern Europe ; and Hypophyllum, from South-West Europe 
and North Africa. The first named grows 2 to 2| feet high, and is 
familiar by reason of its stiff, upright growth carrying spiny, flattened, 
modified branches, which are often called leaves, and tiny flowers. 
As male and female flowers are borne by different plants, it is necessary 
to plant both together to obtain fruit ; the latter should predominate. 
The other two kinds are really more attractive, for the so-called leaves 
are of a brighter shade of green and larger. All are excellent for 
planting in semi-shady positions, and form a good ground covering 
for plantations or for beds of strong growing shrubs. Propagation is 
usually by division of the clumps in spring. They may be broken 
up into quite tiny pieces, but each piece must have root and a good 
bud at the base. Seeds may also be used for increase. Pruning 
should consist of the removal of a number of the older shoots 
each year. 

Rush. — {See J uncus.) 

Rush, Flowering. ^(5<?5 BuTOMUS umbellatus.) 

Ruta (Rue). — Practically the only Rue (Natural Order Rutaccae) 
met with in gardens is the Common Rue (Ruta graveolens), a well- 
known strong-smelHng herb, native of Southern Europe. It is not with- 
out ornamental value, for it forms a much-branched bush 3 feet or 
so in height, clothed with trifoliate leaves of bluish-green tint and 
yellow flowers in early summer. Other species are bracteosa, divari- 
cata, and patavina. The Rues will thrive in ordinary soil that is 
well drained, and can be increased by seeds sown in spring or by 
cuttings 4 or 5 inches long, taken in summer and dibbled in sandy 
soil on a shaded border. 

Sage — {See Salvia.) 

Sagina {Pearlwori). — Only one kind, Sagina glabra (pilifera), 
and its golden-leaved variety, aurea, are much grown. Both are very 
dwarf evergreen plants, belonging to the Pink family (Caryophyl- 
laceae), closely carpeting the ground, and thrive in sun or shade. 
Sagina glabra is useful to plant as a groundwork for early spring- 
flowering bulbs in the rock garden, or as an edging to beds and borders. 
The var. aurea is extensively used for carpet bedding, forming a golden- 
yellow carpet. In early summer both plants are thickly studded with 
myriads of small starry white flowers. The Pearlwort can be rapidly 
propagated by division in autumn or spring, and thrives in ordinary 
garden soil ; it is a native of Corsica, and is also known as Spergula 
pilifera. 




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SAGITTARIA 391 

Sagittaria {Arrow Head). — Attractive water plants (Natural 
Order Alismaceae), with arrow-shaped leaves and pleasing spikes of 
white flowers from July to October. Our native Arrow Head, Sagit- 
taria sagittifolia, is well known ; it has rich, green, arrow-shaped leaves 
on long stalks, and tall spikes of white flowers. For water gardening 
the double var. flore pleno is a much more useful plant, the pure white 
flowers lasting longer in beauty. The North American Arrow Head, 
Sagittaria variabilis, is very beautiful, having large white flowers. 
There is also a double variety, flore pleno, which is generally considered 
indispensable in an aquatic garden. Water from 6 to 12 inches deep 
is most suitable, and the roots are planted, in pots or baskets of soil, 
in the mud alongside a pond. The single kinds may be increased 
by seeds sown in pots, and submerged in water as soon as convenient 
after gathering ; the others by division in April. 

Salix {Willow). — The Willows (Natural Order Salicaceae) are 
important both from decorative and commercial aspects. They are 
widely distributed through Europe, Asia, and North America, whilst 
they have been planted widely in other countries. Some are tiny 
prostrate shrubs, and others large trees. Several of the latter are of 
peculiarly graceful habit, and are used extensively for planting in 
the vicinity of water. Most of the kinds are well adapted for plant- 
ing in wet ground, although the best results are not obtained where 
the ground is continually waterlogged ; occasional flooding, however, 
is not disadvantageous. Some Willows have brightly coloured bark, 
and for that reason they are planted in large groups for their winter 
effect. The best colour is obtained from young branches, therefore 
they are cut hard back each year, usually in March. Many kinds 
are grown for basket-making, whilst the wood of Willow is the most 
popular of all woods for the manufacture of cricket bats. One Willow, 
however, is liked better than any other for the purpose ; that is an 
upright-growing female tree with bluish leaves, of hybrid origin, 
variously called Salix alba caerulea and Salix caerulea, and anyone 
who plants trees for timber should be careful to procure this kind, 
and plant it in moist soil near a stream or lake. The side branches 
must be removed whilst quite young, and any which may appear 
from the trunks of later date must be pulled out when but a few 
inches long. Willows are often pollarded at a height of 12 to 14 feet 
from the ground, the branches being cut back every 8 or 10 years. 
The wood is used for a variety of purposes, such as for splitting for 
hurdles, charcoal for gunpowder, etc. All the kinds may be easily 
increased by cuttings made i foot long and inserted out-of-doors in 
winter. 



392 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

The best tree kinds, other than that already referred to, are the 
following : Salix babylonica, the Weeping Willow, native of China, 
is of peculiarly graceful outline, and forms a handsome tree in the 
milder parts of the country ; elegantissima and Salamoni are other 
weeping trees of rather more vigorous habit, and hardier. Salix 
fragilis is the Crack Willow, a large tree common in many parts of 
the country : its wood is used for the rims of sieves and for other 
purposes. Salix alba is another handsome tree. 

The Bush Willows, most frequently grown for basket-making, are 
selected varieties of Salix purpurea, triandra, viminalis, hippophai- 
folia, and daphnoides. They are met with under a great variety of 
names, and each one is made up solely of male or female bushes, 
which indicates that each has sprung from one original plant. 

Sahx vitellina and cardinalis are varieties of Salix alba, with yellow 
and red bark respectively. Although usually grown as bushes, they 
will attain tree-like proportions if allowed to grow freely. Salix 
vitellina pendula is a graceful tree with pendent golden branches ; 
daphnoides has purplish bark covered with a glaucous bloom ; Caprea 
and cinerea are two common British kinds, the male catkins of which 
are familiarly known as Palm. 

Salix magnifica is a very showy Willow recently received from 
China ; it has very large and thick oval leaves of glaucous green 
colour, and produces long catkins of flowers. 

Wlien Willows are grown for the sake of the catkins the male kinds 
only should be selected. Such as herbacea, Paulinae, and retusa are 
very dwarf, and suitable for moist places in the rock garden. 

Salpiglossis. — The present-day strains of Salpiglossis, which 
belongs to the Potato family (Solanaceae), are the progeny of a Chilian 
species, sinuata. They are half-hardy annuals, growing 2 to 3 feet 
in height, with large, prettily veined, funnel-shaped flowers. The great 
improvement in the size and colour of the flowers brought about by 
florists during recent years renders the Salpiglossis very desirable 
for beds and groups in the border. Seeds are sown in a warm green- 
house or frame during March, the seedlings, when large enough, being 
transplanted to shallow boxes and planted out-of-doors, about 6 inches 
apart, towards the end of May. The plants prefer light, rich soil and 
a sunny position, when they will flower from early in July until 
September. Seeds of Salpiglossis arc sold separately to colour and 
in mixture. Different seedsmen give varying names to their strains 
of seeds, such as variabilis, large-flowered, grandiflora, superbissima, 
and Emperor. As a rule, for the distinct colours the name of the 
colour is used; for instance: atrococcinea (blue and gold), purpurea 



SALVIA 393 

(rich purple), Kermesiana (crimson), aurea (golden-yellow), rosea, 
and coccinea (orange-red). The stem and leaves are viscid or 
sticky, and the flowers are not of pleasant scent. 

Salvia (Sage). — Among the Sages (Natural Order Labiatae) are 
hardy perennials, tender shrubby plants, and annuals. Salvia Hormi- 
num (The Clary) is a hardy annual worthy of a place in every 
garden ; it thrives in ordinary soil. Self-sown seedlings often come 
up annually, otherwise seeds are sown in September and the end of 
March or early April, where the plants are to flower. If this is not 
convenient, seedlings may be raised on the reserve border and moved 
to the flowering positions during May. The plants grow about ij feet 
high. Salvia Horminum depends for its beauty upon the coloured 
bracts enclosing the small flowers ; they are purple, white, or rose- 
coloured ; the best variety is Blue Beard, with rich purple bracts. 
The plants last in beauty from June to September, the autumn-sown 
plants being at their best in the former month. 

The best perennial border Sage is virgata or nemorosa, native of 
Europe ; it forms a bush 3 to 4 feet high, with showy violet-blue 
flower spikes from June to September. This Sage thrives in good 
garden soil, and is readily increased by division in autumn and spring. 
Cuttings made of the young shoots late in spring root readily in a 
close frame. The Mexican Sage, Salvia patens, is a half-hardy tuber- 
ous-rooted species. It thrives out-of-doors in the southern and 
western counties, but in the London district and farther north the 
roots should be lifted, placed in sand, and stored in a frost-proof 
cellar or shed. During March or April they are started into growth 
in a greenhouse like the Dahlia. The young shoots may be inserted 
as cuttings in a close frame, hardened off, and planted outside late 
in May. Its lovely gentian-blue flowers make this plant invaluable 
for the border from July to September ; rather light soil and a sunny 
position are necessary. Salvia pratensis, the Meadow Sage, is a 
rare British plant, worthy of a place in the garden ; it has leafy 
bracts and rich purple flower spikes. Useful varieties are alba, white ; 
Baumgarteni, violet-blue ; and rosea, rosy-red. It thrives in ordinary 
soil, in sunny borders, and partial shade, and is increased by division 
of the roots in autumn or spring, or by seeds sown on a border out- 
side in April or May. The plants grow 2| to 3 feet high, flowering 
from June to August. 

For beds and borders in summer the best of the shrubby kinds 
is the Scarlet Sage, Salvia splendens. This is really a greenhouse 
species, but it is a splendid summer bedding plant. Seedlings are 
raised under glass by sowing in a warm greenhouse in February, 



394 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

but the usual plan is to take cuttings in August and keep the young 
plants on the greenhouse shelf during winter, planting outside early 
in June. For bedding, the best sorts are Fireball, 2 feet ; Pride 
(Glory) of Zurich, 15 inches ; and splendens grandiflora, 3 to 4 feet ; 
all have brilliant scarlet flowers lasting from the end of June until 
September. Ordinary garden soil, well tilled and manured, is suit- 
able. The Scarlet Sage is a native of Brazil. 

Sambucus (Elderberry). — Sambucus, which belongs to the Honey- 
suckle family (Caprifohaceae), includes the shrubs or small trees 
known as the Elderberries, and a few herbaceous plants. They thrive 
in moist soil of almost any description, and appreciate a little shade. 
The Common Elder, Sambucus nigra, is found through Europe, Western 
Asia, and North Africa. In the British Isles it often springs up as 
a weed and soon takes possession of considerable tracts of ground 
if not uprooted. It has a value near the sea, for it stands sea air well, 
and is often used as a wind-break for choicer plants. There are numer- 
ous varieties, of which aureo-marginata and aureo-variegata (with 
golden variegated leaves), leucocarpa (with whitish fruit), and 
laciniata (with cut leaves) are the best. 

Sambucus racemosa is the Red-berried Elder of the Northern 
Hemisphere ; it is distinct by reason of its flowers and fruits being 
in dense racemes or corymbs instead of the more familiar flat heads 
of the ordinary Elder. There are many varieties, some of which 
have very beautiful leafage : foliis aureis and plumosa aurea have 
very prettily cut leaves of a bright golden hue ; whilst plumosa and 
tenuifolia have also very prettily cut leaves. The golden varieties 
show the best colour when cut back well each spring. 

Sambucus canadensis is a North American species, with larger 
leaves than nigra ; its golden-leaved variety is very showy, and is 
useful for planting in large groups ; the branches should be cut down 
to the ground in March each year, the variety maxima has immense 
flower-heads. Sambucus glauca, also a North American shrub, produces 
very large flower-heads in July. All these kinds may be increased 
by stem or root cuttings, and the species by seeds. 

Sambucus Ebulus, the Ground Elder, of Europe and the Orient, 
is the best-known herbaceous kind. It grows 2 to 3 feet high, and 
may be planted in the wilder parts of the garden or woodland, but 
is too coarse for the herbaceous border. 

Sanguinaria (Bloodroot). — The only kind, Sanguinaria cana- 
densis, belongs to the Poppy family (Papaveraceae), and is native 
of North America. It has a thick fleshy rootstock, and is increased 
by division preferably in early autumn. The plants are 4 to 6 inches 



SANTOLINA 395 

high, with rounded, veined leaves, and during May and early June 
the pure white llowers with yellow centres are very attractive. The 
Bloodroot thrives best in semi-shaded positions, in the rock garden, 
among hardy ferns, or beneath deciduous shrubs, in a peaty compost, 
and may be associated with Rhododendrons. 

Santolina {Lavender Cotton). — These are dwarf, hardy, shrubby 
perennials, with pleasingly fragrant foliage ; they belong to the 
Daisy family (Compositae). The two best known are : Chamaecy- 
parissus, with silvery-grey foliage, and yellow flower-heads at their 
best in July, 12 to 24 inches in height ; and viridis, with rich deep- 
green foliage and creamy-white flowers in July, i| to 2 feet high. 
Both are natives of Southern Europe. They thrive in ordinary garden 
soil, and are readily increased by cuttings inserted in a cold frame 
during August and September. In addition to their beauty and 
value for the front of the shrubbery border, the plants make very 
pleasing dwarf hedges, and may be trimmed into shape with shears. 

Sanvitalia.— The only kind to record here is procumbens (Natural 
Order Compositae), a Mexican hardy annual. It is a dainty trailing 
plant some 6 inches high, with yellow, Daisy-like flowers and dark 
centre. Ordinary light garden soil is suitable. For preference, sow 
the seeds in autumn or spring where the plants are to flower ; these 
two sowings will give flowers from the end of May or June to Septem- 
ber. There is also a double-flowered variety which is readily raised 
from seeds. 

Saponaria [Soapwort). — Showy annuals and perennials, members 
of the Pink family (Caryophyllaceae). They thrive in ordinary garden 
soil and a sunny position. The annual kinds are : calabrica, bearing 
a profusion of small, deep rose-coloured flowers throughout summer, 
6 inches high, native of Italy ; alba is a pretty white-flowered form. 
Saponaria Vaccaria grows 2 to 2^ feet high, producing dainty pink 
flowers from June to September, much valued for cutting in company 
with the white-flowered variety alba. Sow the seeds in September 
or early April where the plants are to flower. 

The best-known perennial is the double-flowered variety of our 
Common British Soapwort, Saponaria officinalis flore pleno. It grows 
i^ to 2 feet in height, producing from July to September lovely loose 
sprays of double rosy-pink flowers ; it is suitable for a sunny or half- 
shaded position. Saponaria ocymoides is a European trailing plant, 
6 inches high, quickly forming a carpet in the rock garden or front 
of the border, covered in early summer with innumerable small bright 
pink blossoms. There are several varieties of this kind : splendens, 
rosy-crimson ; versicolor, pink and white flowers ; and alba, white. 



396 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

One of the best Alpine Soapworts is Saponaria caespitosa, from the 
Pyrenees, a plant of tufted habit, some 6 inches high, with pretty 
clusters of rose-coloured flowers in summer. Ordinary well-drained 
soil suits the perennials. Propagation is by division of the tufts or 
clumps in autumn or spring. Seeds may be sown in a cold frame from 
April to June. 

Sarcococca. — This is a small group of low-growing or medium- 
sized evergreen shrubs from the Himalaya and China, belonging to 
the Spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). They thrive in light loamy soil, 
and are increased by seeds, cuttings, or by division. Regular pruning 
is unnecessary, but the occasional removal of old branches is attended 
by good results. They may be planted in fairly sunny places or in 
moderate shade, and are useful for small groups in the front of the 
shrubbery, while those of low growth can be grown in the rock garden. 
Sarcococca ruscifolia is one of the most compact and most useful 
species ; it is a new Chinese kind. Other useful sorts are coriacea, 
humilis, prunifolia, saligna, and trinerva. 

Sarracenia {Himismans Horn). — This is one of the Pitcher 
plants (Natural Order Sarraceniaceae) which are natives of North 
America. Only one species is quite hardy, namely Sarracenia purpurea ; 
this has bladder or inflated horn-like leaves, 6 to I2 inches long, 
red, prettily veined, and having a curious lid-like appendage at the 
top. The rich purple flowers are borne on stems about I2 inches high 
towards the end of April and during May. Propagation is by division 
in spring, which is also the best time for planting. The Sarracenias 
revel in moisture ; in fact the roots must never be allowed to become 
dry. A bog garden is the place for them, or, failing this, the wettest 
position in the rock garden. Suitable soil consists of peat, sphagnum 
moss, and pieces of charcoal. The hardiest of the remaining kinds 
are : flava, psittacina, and Stevensii. In warm and sheltered bog 
gardens these are worthy of a place ; they should be covered with a 
temporary frame in winter, if thought necessary. 

Sassafras officinale. — This rare and interesting tree is a native 
of the United States and belongs to the Laurel family (Lauraceae). 
It is hardy in the South of England, and a very fine specimen exists 
in the gardens at Claremont in Surrey. As in other members of the 
same family the various parts of the plant are aromatic, and a fragrant 
oil is obtained from the root-bark and wood which is used in per- 
fumery and for flavouring purposes. It requires good, well-drained 
loamy soil and a fairly sunny position. Increase is by imported 
seeds, and pruning is limited to keeping the leading shoot clear of 
rivals and otherwise shaping the tree, which may be done in summer. 



SAXEGOTHEA CONSPICUA 397 

Young plants are inclined to be tender by reason of late, ill-ripened 
growth, but older trees withstand a considerable amount of frost 
without injury. 

Satin Flower — {See Sisyrinchium.) 

Saxegothea conspicua {Prince Albert's Yew) belongs to the 
Natural Order Coniferae, and in addition to being of decorative value 
is interesting by reason of its various parts having affinities to several 
different families, yet it cannot be said to be very closely related to 
either. Thus, an eminent botanist, the late Dr. Lindley, described 
it as having the male flowers of a Podocarp, the female flowers of a 
Dammara, the fruit of a Juniper, the seed of a Dacrydium, and the 
general aspect of a Yew. It is a native of the Andes of Valdivia and 
Patagonia, and was introduced in 1849 ^^^id named in honour of the 
late Prince Consort, hence the common name " Prince Albert's Yew." 
It is only suitable for the south and south-west counties, but it there 
makes a handsome specimen of elegant Yew-like habit, growing up 
to a height of 40 feet. Plant in moist, but well-drained soil, increase 
from cuttings, placed in sandy soil in a close frame, and prune when 
young to keep the leading shoot clear. 

Saxifraga {Saxifrage or Rock/oil). — Of plants cultivated in 
the open air in these islands, none show greater variation or exhibit 
such extraordinary beauty as the numerous kinds of Saxifraga (Natural 
Order Saxifragaceae). The popular name of Rockfoil is only descrip- 
tive of those that are truly mountain plants, and is misleading when 
applied to such as peltata, which grows 3 feet high. 

The majority of Saxifrages grown in gardens are native of the 
mountains of Europe. Some are only found in restricted localities, 
while others are widely distributed. 

Saxifrages are, on the whole, not difficult plants to manage, pro- 
vided we recognise the conditions that make for success and take the 
necessary trouble to supply them ; failure will result if soil be used that 
has become sour, or is close and sticky, holding moisture for a long time. 
Really well-drained soil is essential, and a compost that suits the 
majority consists of 2 parts loam, i part each of coarse grit and crushed 
mortar ; if, in addition, stone or granite chips are mixed with the 
soil, an ideal rooting medium is obtained. The amateur rock- 
gardener will often have to make shift with other material, as for 
instance, crushed bricks in place of grit. Again, those who garden on 
chalk, or can easily procure this or limestone, have something far 
superior to mortar rubble, for nearly all the Rockfoils need soil con- 
taining lime. 

A shallow bed of soil is httle better than none at all ; " pockets " 



398 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

and crevices intended for the finer Saxifrages should be opened to a 
depth of 2 feet, 6 inches of rough drainage being placed in the bottom. 
Then fill up the next 9 inches with the compost already advised, 
working in some of the larger pieces of rubble, and bring the ground 
to the original level with the compost, leaving out the rubble. This 
gives a good depth of well-drained soil, and even in the hottest weather 
the roots find moisture there. With the mossy Saxifrages and those 
like Saxifraga Geum and umbrosa, together with a few of the stronger 
and more vigorous encrusted kinds, this elaborate preparation is not 
essential. They thrive in ordinary garden soil to which some gritty 
material is added ; all, however, insist on having thorough drainage. 

One of the most important groups in the garden is formed by 
the Encrusted or Silver Saxifrages ; they are easily recognised by 
the white encrustation that is present on the leaves, which are 
regularly arranged upon short stems and form a circular outline ; 
hence they appear like rosettes of silvery- green. The flowers are 
generally borne in plume-like heads ; the stems, short or tall, are at 
first erect, but as the flowers expand, these by their weight cause 
the stem to arch over gracefully. With one exception (Saxifraga floru- 
lenta) all the plants contained in the group can be recommended to the 
notice of amateurs, as they present no insuperable difficulties in 
cultivation. All prefer plenty of lime and grit in the soil and a sunny 
position. They also succeed in aspects facing east or west, while they 
are equally at home in the rock garden or dry wall. One of the easiest 
and most variable species in this group is Aizoon (common on mountains 
of Europe and north arctic regions), characterised by dense mounds 
of small silvery rosettes all clustered together ; in balcana, the leaves 
are broad, the flowers white, heavily spotted with pink on 15 inch 
stems. Baldensis, from Mount Baldo, is neat, with compact silver 
rosettes and white flowers ; pectinata has blunt, toothed, silvery 
leaves, and in rosea the flowers are distinct, being rose ; in flavescens 
and lutea the flowers are of yellow tint. 

Saxifraga cochlearis from the Maritime Alps capitvates alike by its 
dainty spoon-shaped leaves and tiny mounds of silver rosettes, and 
the grace of the wiry flower stems, 6 inches high, that carry big flowers 
of purest white ; in the variety minor the rosettes and flower stems are 
smaller. In Saxifraga Cotyledon, which ranges from the Pyrenees 
and Alps to Lapland, the broad strap-like leaves form large rosettes, 
the branched inflorescence of white flowers occupies the upper half 
of the stem, while in the variety pyramidalis the whole stem is branched 
from the base upward. The side shoots of the last-named are frequently 
grown into plants for the cool greenhouse ; to get the best results no 





THE BLUE SAGE (SALVIA 
PATENS) 



A FREE-FLOWERING SAGE 
(SALVIA GLOBOSA) 





MOSSY ROCKKOIL (SAXIFRAGA 
W^ALLACEI) 



THE QUEEN OF ROCKFOILS 
(SAXIFRAGA LONGIFOLIA) 



SAXIFRAGA 399 

side growths should be allowed to develop on the pot specimens, all 
the energy of the plant being concentrated in one rosette. 

Saxifraga Hostii, from the Alps of Central Europe, is also a strong 
growing, tall kind with panicles of yellowish flowers, faintly spotted with 
pink. Macnabiana, another of the tall kinds, is one of the best, with 
light arching stems, up to 24 inches high, and white flowers heavily 
spotted with pink. Kolenatiana is an Asiatic species with tapering, 
strap-shaped leaves, and delicately coloured pink flowers borne in grace- 
ful plume-like heads, in summer ; it is a charming sort, and prefers 
a cooler, less sunny position than the others. Lingulata is one of the 
most handsome Saxifrages, and is represented by numerous forms, all 
native of the Maritime Alps, the names of which are somewhat confused 
in gardens. In the typical plant the leaves are long and narrow, and 
the margins heavily encrusted ; the flowers, which are large and white, 
are borne by 15-inch stems that are only slightly arched, giving a 
dense and substantial appearance. In the var. lantoscana the leaves 
are shorter and distinctly spoon-shape, the flower stem is arching, 
and the flowers are chiefly on the upper side. There is also a form of 
lantoscana named superba ; this is recognised by its large white 
flowers. 

Saxifraga longifolia, from the Pyrenees, is the most remarkable 
of the encrusted kinds, it never forms offsets, hence must always be 
raised from seed ; the plants, however, must have a covering of fine 
gauze material over them when in flower, otherwise the blooms become 
fertilised with pollen from other species by insect agency. This 
kind forms the largest rosette of any ; well-developed specimens 
measure 9 to 12 inches across. The magnificent flower spike, which 
reaches a height of 24 to 30 inches, forms a towering pyramid of white 
blossom. Some years elapse before it attains flowering size. 

The group of Saxifrages known as the Kabschia section embraces 
some delightful kinds ; they bloom in the opening months of the 
year, and present, in striking combination, large flowers surmounting 
plants of minute growth. They form low mounds or carpets of short, 
grey or green rosettes formed of leaves that are sharp and needle- 
like or blunt, and slightly thickened at the base. In planting this 
section keep the plants well into the ground, and make certain that 
they are thoroughly firm, while around them, on the surface, employ 
rough grit in quantity. Propagation may be carried out by division 
in spring, splitting the plants into pieces having roots, and planting 
in the usual way ; this, however, should only be practised under 
compulsion or after some experience has been gained with easier 
members. Cuttings can also be made of single shoots in summer, 



400 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

inserting several in pots of gritty soil, placing these in a close, cool 
frame. 

An easy and satisfactory plant to grow is Saxifraga apiculata ; 
it spreads into a broad, bronze-green mass, and the flowers are lemon- 
yellow, several on a stem, and appear as early as March ; there is also 
a white form, similar to the type in all but colour. Boydii has deep 
yellow flowers in March ; it is not one of the easiest to manage. A far 
better garden plant is that known as Boydii alba ; this has large, 
handsome flowers of white, while it is as easy to grow as apiculata. 
Burseriana, from the Southern and Eastern Alps, is a plant of un- 
common beauty, and gives generously of its flowers during February. 
The plant is variable ; in the type the leaves form close, spiny tufts of 
dull grey green and the flowers are on 2-inch stems, usually opening 
about the beginning of March. In the var. major the leaves are larger 
and of a greyer tint, with a corresponding increase in the size of the 
flowers ; in the forms known as " Gloria " and " Magna " we have 
the largest flowered of all, while the var. tridentina is particularly 
attractive, the margins of the petals being waved. A sunny position 
or an east or west aspect suits these ; in the south the hottest ex- 
posure should be avoided. Diapensoides, from the Tyrol, etc., is one 
of the smallest, with close, imbricated, hairy leaves that form silvery 
tufts, from which rise 3-inch hairy stems that carry the big white 
flowers in clustered heads. 

Saxifraga Elizabethae is a free-growing hybrid, that forms a solid 
mat of dense green ; the flower stems are some 2 inches high, tinted 
red, while the clustered flowers are yellow ; it only blooms freely 
where it receives abundance of sun. Ferdinandi-Coburgi, from 
Macedonia, has clustered flowers of yellow during April. Faldonside 
is an early-flowering hybrid, taking pride of place among yellows ; 
the colour is really sulphur yellow, the petals being rounded and full 
with crimped margins. Growth is free but slow, the stiff leaves 
forming a close, hard carpet of greenish-grey. L. G. Godseff is a 
vigorous hybrid producing fine lemon-coloured flowers on 3-inch 
stems, the latter tinted red ; it is a good grower, and spreads freely 
in gritty soil, in sun. 

Saxifraga marginata, from Southern Italy, produces its large white 
flowers in clusters of three or more ; the stems are some 3 inches 
high ; the leaves are not of the spiny kind, but resemble a small silvery 
Saxifrage having the margins encrusted by lime ; it flowers in March. 
Rocheliana, native of the Balkans, has small encrusted leaves and white 
bunched flowers on 2-inch stems ; the var. coriophylla usually gives 
a more generous display. Sancta, a Macedonian species, has yellow 



SAXIFRAGA 401 

flowers on 2-inch stems, and dense mats of dark green shoots. Paulinae 
is a hybrid with lemon flowers, on 2-inch stems. 

The Porphyrion Saxifrages are represented by oppositifoha. In 
the typical kind the flowers are purple, but the variation found in this 
kind is very great. In the var. splendens the flowers are purple- 
crimson, and produced in March ; the var. alba has white flowers, 
while in the var. W. A. Clark they are bright carmine-red. All are 
close growing with evergreen, opposite leaves, succeeding best in cool, 
gritty soil with the foliage and stems fully exposed to sun. 

Saxifraga Fortunei, from Japan, is the best representative of the 
Diptera group, and is valuable in being the last to flower ; the leaves 
are large, rounded, and with toothed margins, while the stout, i8-inch 
stems carry large panicles of white flowers ; its flowering season is late 
September or early in October. It is only hardy in favoured districts, 
succeeding in rich gritty soil with plenty of moisture. Saxifraga 
sarmentosa, or Mother of Thousands, so often seen in cottage windows, 
belongs to this group. 

In the Robertsonia group the best-known representatives are 
Geum and umbrosa (London Pride) ; of the former the vars. crenata 
and dentata are worth growing, while the latter should be represented 
by the vars. Colvillei, serratifolia and minor. All are green-leaved 
plants, easy to grow in any good soil. 

A charming and lovely plant of the Engleria group is Saxifraga 
Griesbachii ; this lovely Macedonian plant has blue-green, silvered 
leaves which form rosettes of handsome and distinct character. As 
early as January the centre begins to swell up showing a blood-red, 
club-like stem ; but not until early March is the infloresence fully 
developed, and the inverted flowers of purple-crimson reveal the 
yellow stamens within ; the stems supporting these are also coloured 
and covered with leafy bracts of the same shade. It looks charming 
in a vertical fissure, and must have a cool, well-drained spot and soil 
of grit, limestone chips and loam. 

The Dactyloides group embraces the mossy Saxifrages ; these are 
among the most useful and reliable, forming snowy sheets, or masses 
of colour when in flower. Of the white flowered kinds hypnoides, 
found in the alpine parts of Britain, is the plant familiar in gardens as 
Eve's Cushion ; it makes a dense, close, springy mass of vivid green, 
and bears its flowers on 6-inch stems in spring. Exarata, also of this 
type, produces flowers in such profusion that the foliage can scarcely 
be seen ; these are on firm, wiry stems some 3 inches in height. Cam- 
posii, of gardens, is really Wallacei ; it is a plant of great merit, with big 
white flowers on branched stems some 6 inches high, and one of the 
2 A 



402 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

most effective of the mosses of larger growth. Decipiens, from Northern 
Europe, is also a large growing kind with leaves that are deeply lobed ; 
the flowers are large, and on 6-inch stems ; of this plant there are several 
varieties. Caespitosa, from Northern Europe, and sponhemica, a 
species found along the West of Ireland, have also white flowers, and 
generally have much in common with decipiens. 

Saxifraga muscoides is an important mossy plant of dwarf growth 
(found widely distributed over the European Alps) ; from this kind 
the popular strain of red-flowered mossy Saxifrages has originated. 
One of the oldest and best is Guildford Seedhng, with close carpet 
of green, and bright red flowers on 6-inch stems. Fergusoni is similar, 
with rather deeper coloured flowers ; Bakeri, also of small growth, 
has flowers of rich carmine-red ; sanguinea superba is one of the richest 
coloured of all. Among the taller red-flowered varieties are Lady 
Deane, white, with pink centre ; decipiens grandiflora, reddish-pink ; 
Clibrani, crimson ; and Bathoniensis, deep crimson. All red-flowered 
forms retain their colour best in half shade ; in full sun they are more 
or less washy before they fade : the prettiest effect of all is produced 
while they are in bud. 

The Megasea group is the last of importance in the garden to notice. 
The kinds are readily recognised by the large, round, leathery leaves, 
of an evergreen character. Although the flower spikes are beautiful 
when seen in quantity, it is for their foliage effect that they are most 
cherished in gardens ; the autumn and winter tints of ruddy purple 
and bright red are extremely pleasing. The best are cordifolia and 
crassifolia, both Siberian plants that differ from each other chiefly 
in the leaves. Ligulata is the earliest to flower, but is not the 
hardiest, and should have a warm position in cold districts; it 
is a showy plant in spring, and gives noble effects when boldly 
grouped with large rocks on steep banks or ledges ; it is native of 
the Himalaya. 

Almost all Saxifrages are readily increased by division, which is 
best carried out in early spring. With the free-growing kinds all that 
is necessary is to dibble in pieces or tufts, leaving only the actual 
crown or rosette exposed ; the better and scarcer sorts should be 
grown in pots as recommended for the Kabschia section. When off- 
sets or cuttings are not obtainable, resource must be had to seed, 
which is sown either in autumn or spring, in pans of gritty soil, the 
seedHngs being grown under such conditions as described for cuttings. 
Unless great care has been taken to ensure self-fertilisation in the plant 
that produced seed, the seedlings will probably be of mixed parentage, 
as Saxifrages intercross very readily. 




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SCABIOSA 403 

Scabiosa (Scabious). — Pretty annual, biennial, and perennial 
plants (Natural Order Dipsaceae), often known in cottage gardens 
as Pincushion Flowers in reference to the shape of the flower-heads. 
The most popular is the Sweet Scabious, Scabiosa atropurpurea, native 
of Southern Europe, of which the varieties are numerous. They may 
be treated as biennials and sown in May or June for planting in their 
flowering positions in autumn ; or they can be treated as annuals 
and raised from seeds under glass in spring. The plants thrive in 
good garden soil, grow about 3 feet in height, and flower freely from 
May to September, according to the time of sowing. Distinct sorts 
— seeds of which are sold separately — include : Snowball, white ; King 
of the Blacks ; Marginata, lilac and white ; Pink, Mauve, and Cherry 
Red. There is also a dwarf strain, nana flore pleno (Tom Thumb), 
12 inches, in mixed colours. 

The best-known perennial is Scabiosa caucasica, the Caucasian 
Scabious ; it grows about 2 feet high, has dainty lilac-mauve flowers 
in quantity during June and July, and fewer in August and September. 
Desirable varieties are : alba, white ; Pride of Riverslea, delicate 
lilac-mauve ; perfecta, pale mauve ; and Diamond, dark mauve. 
On fairly light soils and in large rock gardens the plants last for some 
years, and may be increased by division in September or spring. In 
gardens where the soil is rather heavy and moist this Scabious is treated 
as a biennial, seed being sown on a border outside from April to June. 
The yellow Scabious, Scabiosa lutea, is a tall plant for the herbaceous 
border, 5 feet high, flowering from July to September ; still taller 
is the var. gigantea, with primrose-yellow flower-heads. In the rock 
garden Scabiosa Pterocephala (syn. parnassiaefolia) is a charming 
plant, 6 inches high, from Greece, with mauve-purple flowers in 
summer and autumn, and greyish-green foHage. It is increased by 
division or seeds. All the Scabious need a sunny position. 
Scabious — {See Scabiosa.) 

Schinus is a group of evergreen shrubs (Natural Order Anacar- 
diaceae), closely allied to the Sumach (Rhus). Two species are some- 
times grown : Bomplandianus, from South Brazil, and dependens, 
from Chili. Both are evergreen, fast-growing shrubs, which are rather 
tender and only suitable for the southern counties ; the small white 
flowers are sufficiently plentiful to be attractive, but there are many 
more ornamental shrubs. They, however, grow well in poor soil, 
and for that reason are worth encouragement. Increase is by seeds 
and cuttings. An occasional cutting back is necessary to keep the 
plants within bounds. This may be done in summer. It is wise to 
plant them in a sunny position. 



404 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Schizanthus {Butterfly Flower). — Although perhaps better known 
as a greenhouse plant, the Schizanthus (Natural Order Solanaceae) 
is also a lovely annual for the garden. Three kinds — Grahami, pin- 
natus, and retusus, natives of Peru and Chili — have been used by the 
florist in creating the beautiful sorts in cultivation to-day. The 
colours include white, pink, mauve, lilac, and rosy-red, all more or 
less blotched and spotted. Good strains of seeds in mixture are : 
Wisetonensis, large-flowered hybrids ; and hybridus grandiflorus. 
The prettily cut pinnate foliage enhances the beauty of the plants 
which grow from i foot to 2 feet high. Seeds are sown under glass 
towards the end of March or outside during April, where the plants 
are to flower. The stems should be supported with twigs from an 
old birch broom when a few inches high. The flowering season is 
from the end of June to September. 

Schizocodon. — The only species, Schizocodon soldanelloides, 
(Natural Order Diapensiaceae) is a native of Japan ; it grows only 
3 or 4 inches high and forms a tuft of shining evergreen leaves, among 
which appear the elegantly fringed, rose-coloured flowers in spring 
and early summer. Increase is by division in September, at which 
time planting ought also to be done. Peat and coarse sand form the 
best soil. This is one of the daintiest flowers for a warm, sheltered 
nook in the rock garden where the soil is fairly moist. 

Schizopetalon [Lace Flower).— Only one kind is grown, Schizo- 
petalon Walkeri, a Chilian plant with prettily fringed white flowers, 
belonging to the Wallflower family (Cruciferae). It is a half-hardy 
annual, growing 9 to 12 inches high, raised from seeds in light soil 
on a warm border during April and early May, where it will flower in 
July and August. The blossoms have an Almond-like fragrance. 

Schizophragma.— Climbing plants belonging to the Saxifrage 
family (Saxifragaceae), and closely allied to Hydrangea. Two species 
have been introduced, hydrangeoides, from China and Japan, and integ- 
rifolia, from China. Both are rare plants of climbing habit, and they 
resemble Hydrangea petiolaris (with which the former plant is often 
confused) by having aerial roots on the branches by means of which 
they cling to their supports, tree trunks, rocks, or fences; They, how- 
ever, show a considerable difference from Hydrangea by the sterile 
flowers, those of Schizophragma having but one large bract, whilst 
in Hydrangea there are four. The white sterile flowers are few in 
number, and they appear here and there amongst the numerous 
fertile flowers in the large flat head. Plant in good loamy soil against 
an upturned tree butt, tree trunk, or wall. Propagation is by layers 
and pruning is unnecessary. Of the two kinds integrifolia is likely 



SCHIZOSTYLIS 405 

to form the most showy plant. The single bracts of the sterile flowers 
are up to 3 inches long and ih inches wide. 

Schizostylis (Kaffir Lily). — The only kind is Schizostylis coc- 
cinea, a South African bulbous plant belonging to the Iris family 
(Iridaceae), and flowering from October to December. The plants grow 
about 2 feet high, have Iris-like foliage and vivid scarlet-crimson 
flowers. The best position is at the foot of a sunny south wall or 
fence. Suitable soil consists of 2 parts fibrous loam and i part each 
of peat, leaf-mould, and sand. Increase is by division of the offsets 
in spring. The clumps ought to be divided, and replanted about 
every three years. 

Sciadopitys verticillata (Umbrella Pine). — An attractive Conifer 
(Natural Order Coniferae), known in its native country, Japan, as 
the Umbrella or Parasol Pine, by reason of the narrow evergreen 
leaves being arranged on the branch in the same way that the ribs 
of a parasol or umbrella are arranged. It has been in cultivation 
since 1861, about which date it was introduced by two persons, Mr. 
J. G. Veitch and Mr. R. Fortune. In its native country it forms 
a timber tree of the largest size. Here, however, it does not appear 
as if it will ever attain its average size, although it forms a stately, 
well- furnished specimen clothed with branches from base to summit. 
The largest specimens are to be seen in the south-west counties, where 
some are 20 feet high ; it thrives in light, well-drained though moist, 
loamy soil containing a little peat, and gives the best results where 
the atmosphere is pure and moist. Although it thrives best in the 
milder counties, it cannot be called tender, for it withstood the severe 
winter of 1894-5 without injury in the neighbourhood of London. 
Propagation is by seeds, which are ripened freely in this country, 
and pruning consists of keeping the leaders clear, shaping the plants, 
and removing any cones, whilst still very small, which are not required 
for seeds. 

Scilla (Squill, Bluebell). — In small and large gardens the Squills 
(Natural Order Liliaceae) are equally valuable. They thrive in any 
garden soil, except that which is heavy and wet, and may be increased 
rapidly by offsets, while seeds also provide a ready means of pro- 
pagation ; in fact, if these are allowed to ripen, self-sown seedlings 
of most kinds spring up readily. Autumn is the best time to plant 
the bulbs of those kinds that bloom before midsummer ; peruviana 
and autumnalis should be planted in spring. A suitable depth to 
plant is such that the smaller bulbs are covered with 2 inches of soil 
and the larger ones with 3 or 4 inches. The flowering season is from 
February to April. The earliest are : bifolia, deep blue, native of 



406 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Europe and Asia Minor ; and sibirica (Siberian Squill), porcelain 
blue ; there arc white varieties of both, while bifolia carnea has pale 
pink blooms. All these grow about 3 inches high. 

During May Scilla italica (Italian Bluebell) bears dainty pyramidal 
flower spikes of lavender tint, 6 inches high ; this and the white 
var. alba should find a place in the rock garden, together with 
Scilla peruviana (Peruvian Squill), which bears a dense raceme of 
from fifty to one hundred light blue flowers in June. This plant, 
which is native of the Mediterranean region, has the largest bulb of all 
hardy Scillas ; light sandy loam and leaf-mould form a suitable 
compost. In late summer, July to September, we may look for the 
blossoms of Scilla autumnalis, from Europe and North Africa, purple- 
blue, and the var. japonica, rose, both with pretty spikes 6 inches 
higli, and suitable for the rock garden. 

While most of us are familiar with our native Bluebell, Scilla 
festalis (nutans), few flower lovers recognise its value for shady borders 
and odd corners unsuited to choice plants. Varieties are obtainable 
in half a dozen distinct shades of colour : festahs, violet-blue ; alba, 
white ; azurea, porcelain blue ; Blush Queen, delicate pink ; carnea, 
blush pink ; rosea grandiflora, rosy-pink ; and rubra, lilac-rose. 
Allied to these and suitable for similar positions and for the flower 
border are the Spanish Bluebells, varieties of Scilla hispanica (cam- 
panulata). The flower spikes, about 15 inches high, are stiffer and 
the flowers a little larger than the British Bluebell ; distinct varieties 
are alba, white ; Bleu Coeleste, deep blue ; Blue Queen, porcelain 
blue ; Rosalind, rose-pink ; and Rose Queen, lilac-rose. Once 
planted in sunny or shady positions, the bulbs of both Bluebells and 
Squills may be left undisturbed for years unless required to be lifted 
for propagation. 

Scirpus {Club Rush). — Numerous members of this group (Natural 
Order Cyperaceae) grow by the waterside and swamps in this country. 
The two best for the garden pool are the Common Scirpus lacustris, 
with green leaves and reddish-brown inflorescences, in July and 
August, several feet in height, and the var. Tabernaemontani 
zebrinus (Banded Rush), of which the stems are banded or ringed 
with pale yellow. Increase is by division preferably in spring. 

Scolopendrium {Hart's Tongue Fern). — ^The British Hart's 
Tongue, Scolopendrium vulgare (Natural Order Filices), is one of our 
commonest native ferns. It is an attractive evergreen plant with 
shining green leathery fronds, curled, crested, or much divided in 
the numerous varieties. Some have quite small leaves, others grow 
from 1 1 to 2 feet in length. The Hart's Tongue Ferns thrive in sun 





FOR THE ROCKERY (SHORTIA 
GALACIFOLIA) 



A HANDSOME ROCKFOIL 
(SAXIFRAGA LINGULATA) 





THE JAPANESE SPIRAEA 
(SPIRAEA JAPONICA) 



THE SATIN FLOWER 
(SISYRINCHIUM STRIATUM) 



SCOLYMUS 



407 



and shade, by the waterside, in the bog garden, on the rockery, in a 
shady border, and in the chinks of an old wall. While they grow 
well in ordinary garden soil, they are benefited by mixing a little 
peat, leaf-mould, and old mortar rubble in the ground previous to 
planting. Propagation of the varieties is by division in autumn 
or spring. They may also be increased by spores, but do not come 
true. It is only possible here to give a list of a dozen of the 400 or 
500 varieties which have been given distinctive names : crispum, 
crispum fibriatum, cristatum, cristatum Kelwayi, cristulatum, grandi- 
ceps, laceratum, marginatum, ramo-cristatum, ramo-marginatum, 
sagittato-cristatum, undulatum cornutum. 

Scolymus {Golden Thistle). — Useful plants for large flower borders 
and the wild garden ; they belong to the Natural Order Compositae. 
As the popular name suggests, the plants have Thistle-like leaves and 
flowers. Increase is by seeds and division in autumn or spring. They 
are usually treated as biennials and raised from seeds sown outside 
in May or June. Ordinary garden soil is suitable, and they prefer 
a sunny position. Scolymus grandiflorus bears golden-yellow, solitary 
flower-heads in May and June, and has 
greyish leaves ; it grows 3 feet high, 
and is native of the Mediterranean 
region. Scolymus hispanicus (Spanish 
Oyster Plant) has yellow flower-heads, 
in clusters, from July to September ; it 
is 3 feet high, and native of South- West 
Europe. 

Scots Pine — {See Pinus.) 

Scutellaria {Skull Cap).— Those who 
like to cultivate little-known plants will 
find Scutellaria interesting and desirable 
for the rock garden and front of the 
border. It belongs to the Sage family 
(Labiatae). Propagation is mostly car- 
ried on by division of the roots in 
spring. When seeds are available these 
should be sown in a frame in spring or 
early summer. Ordinary garden soil and 
an open, sunny position supply their 
needs. The following are the best : 
albida, from Greece, with white flowers ; 
alpina, native of Europe and Central 

. ^ . . THE REEDMACE 

Asia, purple and yellow ; altissima, a (Typha latifoiia) 




4oS THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Caucasian plant with dark purple flowers ; and baicalensis, native 
of Siberia, purple. Scutellaria orientalis, from Central Asia and 
Southern Europe, is a very desirable trailing kind, 9 inches high, 
with yellow flowers. These plants bloom in July and August, and 
grow about 12 inches high. 

Sea Buckthorn. — {See Hippophae.) 

Sea Holly.— (5^<? Eryngium.) 

Sea Lavender. — {See St.\tice.) 

Sedum {Stonecrop). — These are important plants (Natural Order 
Crassulaceae), chiefly suitable for the rock garden. Many thrive in 
dry, sunny positions in crevices of old walls, crannies between boulders 
in the rock garden, and between rough paving-stones. A few are 
popular plants for carpet bedding, and others deservedly find a place 
along the front of the flower border. Well-drained soil is essential, 
and plenty of mortar rubble mixed in is advantageous. Propagation 
by division is fairly general, though some kinds can be rapidly increased 
from cuttings, while others are easy to raise from seeds. Planting 
may be done in autumn or spring, which is also the best time to divide 
the clumps ; cuttings are inserted in sandy soil, preferably in a frame 
during summer and autumn, while seeds are sown in a cold frame 
from April to June. 

Sedum acre, the Biting Stonecrop or Wall Pepper, is a familiar 
British plant, about 3 inches high, with yellow blossoms in early 
summer. Though a native plant it is useful in the rock garden ; the 
var. aureum, with yellow fohage, is used for carpet bedding. Sedum 
album, also British, grows 4 to 6 inches high and bears white blossoms 
in June and July. In the South of England Sedum dasyphyllum 
(glaucum) is found wild on old walls ; it is 2 inches high, and has 
white flowers tinged with pink in June and July. The Siberian Sedum 
Ewersii has silvery leaves, trailing stems, and rosy-purple flowers 
lasting from July to September ; height about 4 inches. Sedum 
kamtschaticum (Orange Stonecrop) is a showy evergreen plant with 
trailing stems, rich green leaves, and bunches of yellow flowers from 
June to August ; it is native of Kamtschatka and about 6 inches 
high. Sedum lydium, from Asia Minor, grows 3 inches high, with 
tiny pink flowers in summer ; during winter the plants assume a 
bronzy-red tint. From Amurland comes the distinct Sedum Midden- 
dorfianum, 4 inches high, with yellow flowers from July to September, 
followed by heads of red seed vessels ; a beautiful rock plant. The 
Californian Stonecrop, Sedum obtusatum, 4 inches high, has succu- 
lent foliage of bronze-green shade, yellow flowers in August. Sedum 
pulchellum (Bird's-foot Stonecrop) is charming in the rock garden ; 



SELAGINELLA 409 

the dainty pink flowers attract attention from July to September ; 
it is 3 inches or rather more in height, and native of North America, 
Sedum rupestre grandiflorum has blue-grcen fohage which becomes 
tinged with red in winter, and yellow flowers in July and August ; 
6 inches high ; native of Europe. 

An important kind from Japan is Sedum Sieboldii, 6 inches high, 
with greyish-green leaves edged with red, and rose-coloured flowers 
from July to September. It is spreading in habit and in addition 
to being planted in the rock garden is sometimes used for summer 
bedding, as also is the var. variegatum. Sedum spathulaefoHum 
from Western North America is a lovely picture in June when aglow 
with yellow flowers, rosettes of glaucous green leaves, and pink-tinted 
stems ; it is from 4 to 6 inches high. Sedum spurium is a pro- 
cumbent Caucasian Stonecrop with evergreen leaves and pink-white 
blossoms in July and August ; 4 to 6 inches high. 

Several kinds, from i foot to 2 feet high, in addition to their value 
in large rock gardens, are worth planting in a sunny flower border. 
Sedum Aizoon, from Siberia, bears yellow flowers in July and August, 
and Sedum Maximowiczii, from Japan, having flat, yellow flower- 
heads, is at its best in July. A very striking species is the European 
Sedum maximum, with white flower-heads spotted with red, from 
July to September ; the var. atropurpureum (purpureum) has purple 
foliage and rosy flower-heads. The Japanese Stonecrop, Sedum 
spectabile, is one of the most showy and valuable kinds ; it is easy to 
grow, and a splendid plant for small gardens, thriving in sun or partial 
shade ; for a north border it is unsurpassed as an edging. The large 
flat heads of rose-purple flowers are in full beauty in late August and 
September ; the var, roseum (atropurpureum) is brighter in colour. 
For dry positions the Orpine, Sedum Telephium, a British species, 
is valuable ; it has erect stems 12 inches high and purplish-pink 
flowers from July to September ; it is a very variable plant, and some 
of the most distinct forms have been given names ; three of the best 
are Munstead Red, Borderi, and haematodes. 

Selaginella. — These are moss-like plants (Natural Order Lyco- 
podiaceae) allied to the Fern family. They need a moist, half- shaded 
position in the rock garden, bog garden, or on a sloping bank by the 
side of a shady walk or stream. The most suitable soil is one con- 
taining peat and leaf-mould, but this is not essential. Increase is 
by division in spring ; the dwarf trailing growths spread rapidly over 
the ground in genial surroundings. Cuttings also form a ready means 
of propagation ; they are inserted in sandy soil in a close frame from 
March to August, Selaginella helvetica, from the Alps, is the 



410 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 



hardiest kind, forming a thick green carpet ; denticulata, native 
of the Mediterranean region, is rich green at first, but changes 
to a reddish tint in autumn when planted in exposed positions. 
Kraussiana is stronger in growth, forming a rich, dark green carpet 
in sheltered nooks ; it is not so hardy as the other two, being a South 
African kind, and is often grown in the greenhouse in winter and 
planted outside as a carpet for some of tlie summer bedding plants. 
Sempervlvum {Houseleek). — In hot and dry positions these 
plants (Natural Order Crassulaceae) thrive where few will exist. 
In country districts we see mounds of their evergreen rosettes on 
the sloping roofs of buildings ; they are suitable for planting on the 
top of or in the crevices of old walls, on the bare surfaces of stones 
in the rock garden, or as an edging to beds and borders. They thrive 
in very gritty and well-drained soil, with which old mortar rubble is 
freely mixed. Country people, when planting little hillocks on the 
roofs, mix clay and mortar rubble together in which to start them. 
Houseleeks increase rapidly by offsets, the best time to divide them 
being in spring, though if an increased stock is not required they may 
be left undisturbed for years. Sometimes Houseleeks are raised 
from seeds, but the plants produce offsets so freely that this method 

is seldom worth while. The plants vary 
from I inch to 9 inches across, and the 
leaves are of various shades of green, 
often edged with red. In early summer, 
mostly from May to July, the plants 
produce their spikes of red and yellow 
flowers, some flowering much more freely 
than others. A few of the best hardy 
species are the Common Houseleek, 
Sempervivum tectorum, of which there 
are half a dozen distinct forms ; triste, 
known as the Red-leaved Houseleek ; 
arachnoideum, the Cobweb Houseleek, 
having small rosettes covered with white 
cobweb-like down, quite the daintiest 
kind ; and calcareum (caUfornicum), the 
Chalk-loving Houseleek from the Alps of 
Dauphiny, with glaucous leaves, tipped 
with red-brown. From the Alps and 
Pyrenees we have Sempervivum mon- 
^^ ^„^ „^,,^„, ^^,rc. tanum, with rosettes i inch to 2 inches 

ONE OF THE HOUSELEEKS ' 

(Sempervivum) across ; while glaucum, globiferum (Hen 






PI 


m 


^^ ^'-^ 










-.8^ 


.W: 




GOATS BEARD (SPIRAEA 
ARUNCUS) 



THE BEAUTIFUL ASTILBE 
(SPIRAEA) CERES 





A FAVOURITE FOR SPRING BEDS 
(SILENE PENDULA) 



THE SPANISH BLUEBELL ISCILLA 
HISPANICA) 



SENECIO 411 

and Chicken Houscleek), and fimbriatum should also be grown. For 
summer bedding the Madeira Houseleek (tabulaeforme) is a great 
favourite for edging carpet beds ; it has very large fiat rosettes, 
light green in colour, but is rather tender and needs to be lifted in 
autumn and kept in a cool greenhouse during winter. 

Senecio (Groundsel, Ragwort). — ^The Senecios (Natural Order 
Compositae) are very numerous, but comparatively few are grown 
in gardens. The best known annual kind is Senecio elegans 
(Jacobaea), native of South Africa ; seeds are sown under glass in 
March or April or out-of-doors on a sunny border towards the end of 
April. There are two strains, the tall (18 inches high), and dwarf 
(9 inches in height). Both are obtainable in distinct colours, red, 
purple, lilac, and white sorts being sold separately or in mixture. 
A select collection of perennial species should include the following : 
Senecio pulcher, with purplish-red flowers, in autumn, 2 feet or 
more in height, is an attractive plant for the rock garden or a sunny 
border ; Doronicum, a European species, grows 12 inches high, and 
has golden-yellow flowers from June to August. From China we have 
three distinct and beautiful plants all with yellow flowers in late 
summer ; clivorum, 4 feet, large leaves ; Wilsonianus, 4 feet, large 
cordate leaves ; and tangutica, 5 feet. All three are delightful free- 
growing plants for large borders, the waterside and wild garden. 

Senecio macrophyllus, the Large-leaved Caucasian Groundsel, is 
a noble plant some 5 feet high, with large heads of yellow flowers 
in July and August, particularly happy in moist soils. Senecio 
japonicus (Ligularia japonica), from Japan, has handsome divided 
leaves, 12 inches across, and bears orange-yellow flowers on stiff 
stems in August, 3 to 5 feet high. Senecio Kaempferi aureo-macu- 
lata is a half-hardy kind with large green leaves beautifully marbled 
or spotted with yellow ; it is a Japanese plant, hardy in the milder 
counties, and elsewhere may be used in beds and borders outside 
in summer. The perennial Senecios thrive in ordinary garden soil, 
well tilled, and manured. Increase is by division from autumn to 
spring when the weather is favourable. Most of them produce seeds 
which should be sown on a border out-of-doors from April to June ; 
and Senecio pulcher may be propagated from root-cuttings, pieces 
of the fleshy roots, i inch to 2 inches long, being placed in sandy 
soil in a cold frame during the spring. 

Sequoia This is an interesting group of Conifers (Natural Order 

Coniferae), for it contains two unique hardy trees and the largest- 
growing Conifers. Amongst the known trees of the world their height 
is said to be surpassed only by some of the Eucalyptus of Australia. 



412 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

The kinds in question are : gigantea, the Bigvvood, and sempervirens 
the Redwood, both natives of CaHfornia. The last-named is the 
commoner tree, the former now being restricted to a comparatively 
few groups, most of which are, however, safe from the woodcutter, 
the land on which they stand being strictly under the control of the 
United States Government. Sequoia gigantea, sometimes called 
Wellingtonia, was discovered in 1852 ; its trunk sometimes exceeds 
300 feet in height with a diameter near the base of 15 to 20 feet. The 
older specimens are said to be quite 3,000 years old. In this country 
trees already exceed 100 feet in height where they are growing under 
favourable conditions. Young specimens are of rather stiff outline, 
with a somewhat formal, conical habit ; the cones are small and borne 
freely here. Several varieties have been given names, notably pen- 
dula, with pendent branches, and aurea, with variegated leaves. 
None is of any value. 

The Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) is a more ornamental tree, 
and attains somewhat similar proportions ; it is much more common 
in its native habitat than the other kind, and its timber is a regular 
and important article of trade. It is one of the few Conifers which 
reproduce themselves from sprouts from the cut-back trunks. A con- 
siderable difference is noticeable in the leaf arrangement of the two 
Sequoias, the leaves of the Bigwood being somewhat like those of 
Cryptomeria, though shorter, whilst those of the Redwood are more 
like those of Taxodium, but evergreen. The cones of the latter are 
usually less than | inch long. 

The most satisfactory results are obtained by planting them in 
good, moist, but not waterlogged, loamy soil, where the atmosphere 
is pure and moist. They thrive well in the South and West of 
England, Ireland, and Scotland. Propagation is best carried out by 
seeds, and pruning is confined to shaping the trees and keeping them 
to single leaders. Shelter from wind is an advantage. 

Serapias. — A small group of hardy Orchids (Natural Order 
Orchidaceae), natives of the Mediterranean region ; they grow about 
2 inches high and flower in May. Choose a sheltered, partially shaded 
position in the rock garden and plant in a soil composed of peat, 
sandy loam, leaf-mould and sand. Increase is by division of the 
tubers in August and September. Serapias cordigera, lilac and red, 
purple-brown lip, and Lingua, brownish-purple, red lip, are the most 
showy kinds. 

Shasta Daisy. — {See Chrysanthemum maximum.) 

Shield Fern. — {See Aspidium.) 

Shirley Poppy. — {See Papaver.) 



SHORTIA 413 

Shortia (Crimson Leaf). — Two species of this desirable rock garden 
plant (Natural Order Diapensiaceae) find a place in our gardens : 
galacifolia, from North America, and uniflora, from Japan. Propaga- 
tion is by division in September or March. The plants love a cool, 
moist, and sheltered spot in the rock garden, and need sandy peaty 
soil ; they are evergreen, grow about 6 inches high, and flower 
from April to June. Shortia galacifolia has somewhat drooping 
flowers, white at first, changing to pink, the petals are prettily 
fringed, and the flower stalks rosy-red ; in summer the foliage is 
deep glossy green and changes to bronze-crimson in autumn. Shortia 
uniflora has delicate rosy-pink flowers and rather smaller leaves than 
the other. 

Siberian Crab. — [See Pyrus.) 

Sibthorpia {Moncy-wori). — Sibthorpia europaea is a pretty creep- 
ing plant, scarcely | inch high, belonging to the Snapdragon family 
(Scrophulariaceae), native of Britain, and called the Cornish Money- 
wort. It needs a rather moist, half-shady position in the rock garden 
in ordinary soil. The tiny, pale, flesh-coloured flowers which open 
from June to September are not very conspicuous ; the small leaves 
are roundish, prettily notched, and hairy. There are two varieties : 
aurea, golden-leaved, and argentea variegata, of which the leaves are 
margined with creamy-white. Spring is the best time for propaga- 
tion, which is carried out by dividing the tufts, the creeping stems 
rooting freely on the underside and forming a dense carpet. 

Sidalcea {Greek Mallow). — Hardy perennials belonging to the 
Mallow family (Malvaceae), which are easy to grow and flower freely 
in ordinary well-drained soil. Increase is by division at any favour- 
able opportunity from October to March, and by seeds sown on a 
border out-of-doors in April or May to secure flowering plants the 
following year. Sidalcea Candida, from New Mexico, has beautiful 
satiny white flowers, freely borne in summer and early autumn on 
plants 3 feet in height. Flowering at the same season is Sidalcea 
Listeri, a plant raised in gardens, with prettily fringed, rosy-pink 
blossoms, 3 to 4 feet high. From North-West America we have 
Sidalcea malvaeflora, a showy plant, 3 to 4 feet high, with rosy-purple 
flowers, lasting in beauty from July to September. There are several 
varieties, the best being Rosy Gem ; atropurpurea, dark rosy-red ; 
and Mariana, rosy-crimson. 

Silene {Catchfly, Campion). — Much could be written in praise of 
these plants which belong to the Pink family (Caryophyllaceae). 
Both the hardy annuals and perennials are extensively grown ; they 
thrive in ordinary soil, and are best in a sunny position. The annuals 



414 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

are easy to grow ; in fact, under favourable conditions, self-sown 
seedlings are plentiful. The best known are the varieties of Silene 
pendula, from the Mediterranean region ; the typical plant grows 
9 to 12 inches high, and bears rose-coloured blossoms freely in spring 
and early summer. Selected varieties which come true from seeds 
are Double Salmon Pink, Double Delicate Pink, and Bonetti, deep 
rose with dark foliage. For spring bedding or as an edging to a 
border the dwarf Silenes are very showy. Good varieties are : Dwarf 
Rose, Dwarf Wliite. Double Dwarf Rose, Double Delicate Pink, and 
Golden Bedder, with golden-yellow leaves and delicate, rose-coloured 
flowers. The seeds are sown on a border out-of-doors in July, the 
seedlings being transferred to their flowering positions in September 
or October ; these are for spring flowering. If desired, a second 
sowing may be made in April to secure plants that will bloom in 
autumn. Silene Armeria (Lobel's Catchfly) is a native of Switzerland 
and some parts of France ; it is from I2 to i8 inches high, and has 
rose-coloured fragrant flowers from July to September. Seeds are 
sown in April, where the plants are to flower. 

The perennial species are numerous. Silene acaulis (Moss Campion ), 
a European species, forms a dwarf cushion, and bears small rosy- 
pink flowers in April ; it thrives best in very gritty soil or the moraine, 
and is difficult to flower well. Silene alpestris (Alpine Catchfly), from 
the European Alps, is a dainty white-flowered plant, some 6 inches 
high, for the rock garden, easily grown in sandy soil. 

Silene maritima flora pleno has double white blooms resembling 
Pinks ; it is 4 to 6 inches high, and flowers in summer. Silene Saxi- 
fraga is a pretty tufted alpine with white flowers. Silene Schafta, the 
Caucasian Campion, some 6 inches high, is one of our best late 
summer plants for the rock garden ; the flowers are bright rose. 
The North American Fire Pink, Silene virginica, grows 9 inches 
high, having fiery-scarlet blossoms from July to September. Most 
of the Perennial Campions bear seeds freely, which should be sown 
on a border outside, or in a cold frame during April and May. 
They may also be propagated by division in autumn or spring. 

Silk Vine. — {See Periploca.) 

Silver Fir.^See Abies.) 

Sisyrinchium {Satin Flower). — Useful plants, with fibrous roots 
and grass-like foliage, for a warm, sunny border and the rock garden. 
They belong to the Iris family (Iridaceae), and thrive in light sandy 
loam, in which peat and leaf-mould are freely mixed. Propagation 
is by division in September or March. The most showy species is 
the North American Sisyrinchium grandiflorum, with rich drooping 





4i 




SKIMMIA 415 

purple flowers on slender leafy stems, 12 inches high, from March 
to May ; album is a pretty white variety. Sisyrinchium angusti- 
folium (Blue-eyed Grass) has elegant grassy leaves and pale blue 
flowers in terminal clusters from May to July ; it is 6 to 9 inches high 
and native of North America ; there are two varieties, bellum, slaty- 
blue, and Nuttallii, blue and white. Sisyrinchium Bermudianum 
(Bermuda Satin Flower), 12 inches or so high, has deep blue flowers 
from May to July. Sisyrinchium striatum, from the Argentine and 
Chili, is a taller-growing plant, 2 feet or more in height, with yellow 
flowers on leafy stems from May to July. 

Skimmia. — Evergreen shrubs from China, Japan, and the Hima- 
laya, belonging to the Rue family (Rutaceae). Three kinds are 
grown : Fortunei, from China ; japonica, a native of Japan ; and 
Laureola, from the Himalaya. There are, in addition, several well- 
marked varieties. The flowers are white, fragrant, and showy, whilst 
in some instances they are succeeded by showy-red fruits which last 
throughout winter. All plants do not, however, produce fruits, for 
male and female flowers are borne ,by different plants. It is there- 
fore necessary to place a male plant here and there amongst those 
of the other sort to insure fertilisation and consequently fruit ; pollen 
is often conveyed to the female flowers by artificial means. As a 
rule, all three kinds are found between i foot and 2 feet in height, 
the plants spreading into broad and dense specimens. Plant in good, 
well-drained loamy soil in which a little peat has been dug. Pro- 
pagation is carried on by means of seeds or by layering the branches. 
Cuttings are sometimes used, but they are rather difficult to root. 
Special varieties are sometimes grafted upon stocks of their respective 
types ; that called Foremanii is considered one of the best. Regular 
pruning is unnecessary. 

Slipperwort. — {See Calceolaria.) 

Sloe.— (5^5 Prunus.) 

Smilax is an interesting group of climbing shrubs which have 
usually evergreen leaves and spiny branches ; they belong to the 
Lily family (Liliaceae). Some are hardy, others tender, but they 
are not often grown in gardens. The cultivated kinds are found in 
Southern Europe, Asia Minor, North America, Mexico, the East 
Indies, Australia, and other countries. The roots have medicinal 
properties and furnish the Sarsaparilla of commerce. A popular 
trailing plant which is often grown indoors under the name of Smilax, 
is really a species of Asparagus, its correct name being Asparagus 
medeoloides. Most of the Smilax are of vigorous growth, and only 
give satisfactory results when allowed plenty of room. The hardy 



4i6 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

ones should be planted at the foot of a fence or bush over which they 
can ramble at will and become a luxuriant tangle. The best kinds 
for outdoors are aspera, from the Mediterranean region, and its vars. 
maculata and mauritanica, all of moderate growth ; Boxa-nox, from 
the Southern United States ; excelsa, laurifolia, and rotundifolia. 
Plant in good loamy soil in a fairly open position, increase by detach- 
ing sections from the rootstock in autumn, and confine pruning to 
keeping the plants within bounds. 

Snakeshead. — {See Fritillaria.) 

Snapdragon. — {See Antirrhinum.) 

Snowdrop.— (5^g Galanthus.) 

Snowdrop Tree. — {See Halesia.) 

Snowflake — {See Leucojum.) 

Soapwort. — {See Saponaria.) 

Solanum is a very large class of considerable importance (Natural 
Order Solanaceae), for amongst its members it includes the common 
Potato, Solanum tuberosum. The various species are widely dis- 
tributed throughout the world, and they show great diversity in 
growth. Some are climbers, others shrubs, many are herbaceous, 
and a large number weeds. Several kinds arc very showy and popular 
garden plants with pretty flowers or fruits, and one or two of our 
best glasshouse climbers belong to this family. Some kinds are 
poisonous, and it is wise to avoid eating the fruits of all kinds which 
are not well-known and well-tried plants. An instance of the poison- 
ous character of the fruit is found in the common, wild, climbing 
Bitter Sweet (Solanum Dulcamara) of our hedgerows ; its brilliant 
red oval berries are well known and generally admired, but the 
berries have proved fatal to children on several occasions. A few 
years ago a new fruit obtained considerable advertisement under the 
name of " Wonder Berry." That was found to be a form of another 
Solanum, which is a common weed with us, Solanum nigrum. The 
Egg plant (Solanum Melongena), which is grown for its fruits, is widely 
distributed through the Tropics of the Old World, and is treated as 
an annual in gardens. Solanum capsicastrum is the well-known 
Winter Cherry, so-called by reason of its round Cherry-like fruits 
which last throughout winter. A native of Brazil, it forms a bush 
3 or 4 feet high. As a rule, it is grown from cuttings each spring. 

Solanum crispum, a native of Chili, is a very showy shrub, suit- 
able for a wall about London or as a bush in the open in the south- 
west counties. In the Victoria Park, Bath, it thrives excellently in 
the open ground, growing freely to a height of 6 or 8 feet and flowering 
magnificently. The deep mauve or bluish flowers are over an inch 



SOLDANELLA 417 

across and borne in large heads. Solanum jasminoides is a very pretty 
climbing plant, which bears elegant bunches of white flowers through- 
out summer and early autumn. A native of Brazil, it is often grown 
as a wall plant in Devonshire, Cornwall, and Ireland ; in other places 
it is worth training to a greenhouse rafter or wall. Solanum Wend- 
landii is easily one of the most beautiful of glasshouse climbers, while 
in one or two places in Cornwall it has met with a certain amount of 
success on a sunny wall in the open. It is a native of Costa Rica 
and is of vigorous growth, easily attaining a height of 20 feet, with 
large deeply-lobed leaves and fine heads, sometimes 12 inches or 
more across, of beautiful deep mauve flowers. 

All the climbers may be pruned back fairly close to the old wood 
in winter or early spring. 

Several annual kinds, such as Balbisii, may be grown for the sake 
of their ornamental fruits, and are sometimes used for summer bedding: 
They are raised from seed sown in warmth in February. 

Soldanella (Bhie Moon-wort). — Small and dainty alpine plants 
(Natural Order Primulaceae), forming dwarf tufts of rounded leaves 
some 3 or 4 inches high among which the nodding, bell-shaped flowers 
appear in April and May. They need a half-shady nook in the rock 
garden and a soil of sand, loam, peat, and leaf-mould. In winter 
place sheets of glass raised above the plants as a protection from 
excessive moisture, but do not cover them with a handlight. In- 
crease is by division in September or February and early March. 
Sometimes one can save seeds of Soldanella alpina, which should be 
sown in a cold frame as soon as ripe. This has violet-coloured, prettily 
fringed flowers, and is a native of the Alps of Europe. Soldanella 
minima, blue, and its var. alba are European plants with solitary 
flowers. Soldanella montana, a native of Eastern Europe, has very 
pretty blue flowers ; and pusilla, from the Alps, bears solitary, nodding 
violet blossoms. 

Solidago ( Golden Rod). — This is a group of mostly North American 
hardy perennials with yellow flowers (Natural Order Compositae). 
They thrive in ordinary garden soil in a sunny or partially shaded 
border or by the waterside, and may be naturalised in the open wood- 
land or wild garden. Division of the clumps from November to 
March is the general method of propagation, though seeds are some- 
times sown on a border outside in April or May. The flowering season 
extends from August to October. The most useful border plants are : 
Canadensis, 4 to 5 feet ; Golden Wings, 5 feet ; neglecta, 5 feet ; 
Shortii, 5 feet ; spectabilis, 3 to 4 feet, fragrant ; and ulmifolia, 
5 to 6 feet. Several dwarf sorts of our native Golden Rod (Solidago 

2B 



4i8 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Virgaurea) are useful for planting in odd corners of the rock garden 
and in the hardy Fernery, notably alpestris, a Swiss kind, 6 to 9 inches ; 
cambrica, the Welsh Golden Rod, 12 inches ; prostrata, from Norway, 
9 inches ; and Buckleyi, a North American sort, 12 inches high. 

Sollya {Australian Bluebell Creeper). — Two species of this slender 
climbing Australian plant (Natural Order Pittosporaceae) are cultivated 
in gardens. Though perhaps better known as greenhouse twiners, 
those who have not seen the Sollyas growing out-of-doors would be 
surprised to find how well they thrive on a sheltered wall, particularly in 
the southern and western counties. Propagation is by cuttings inserted 
in a frame or under a bell-glass during July or August. The soil 
should be well drained and consist of sandy loam, peat, and leaf- 
mould. Support the slender twining shoots with twiggy pea-sticks 
instead of nailing them to the wall. The flowering season is summer 
and early autumn. Both kinds have nodding blue flowers : hetero- 
phylla is the stronger, parviflora (Drummondii) being smaller and 
more slender in growth. 

Solomon's Seal. — {See Polygonatum.) 

Sonchus {Sow Thistle). — Four kinds of Sonchus (Natural Order 
Compositae) grow wild in Britain : palustris, the Tall Marsh Sow 
Thistle ; arvensis, the Milk Thistle ; oleraceus, the Annual Sow Thistle ; 
and asper, the Fringed Annual Sow Thistle. Only one is deserving 
of note here, and that is palustris, a stately plant for the wild garden 
and waterside, 6 feet high ; it has prettily cut leaves and yellow 
blossoms in August and September. It is perennisil, and may be 
increased by division, though seeds are usually sown in early summer 
where the plants are to flower. 

Sophora. — There are several hardy or half-hardy kinds of Sophora, 
all showy trees or shrubs, belonging to the Pea family (Leguminosae). 
The two hardiest are : japonica, from China and Japan, and viciifolia, 
from China. The first-named forms a large tree, if planted in the 
open, often with a low trunk and large, j wide-spreading head of 
branches, but when crowded by other trees the trunk elongates and 
the head is smaller. The pinnate leaves are dark green, and the cream- 
coloured flowers are borne in large panicles in September or earlier 
in sunny years. It forms a very good lawn tree in the South of England. 
Loamy soil suits it ; increase is by seeds, and the pruning of young 
trees is directed towards maintaining equality of growth. Sophora 
viciifolia is a new shrub of considerable worth ; it forms a dense 
bush at least 6 feet high of rather rigid, somewhat spiny growth, 
bearing elegant, small pinnate leaves and white flowers tinged with 
violet. The flowers appear with great freedom in May, and it is an 




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SPARAXIS 419 

excellent lawn or shrubbery plant. Loamy soil with a little peat 
suits it, and propagation is by seeds or cuttings. As it transplants 
badly, it must be given a permanent position while quite small. 
Regular pruning is unnecessary. Sophora tetraptera is a New Zealand 
shrub or small tree, which is sometimes called Edwardsia. Although 
too tender for general outdoor planting, it gives excellent results 
against a wall, and sometimes in the open in Devonshire and Corn- 
wall. The tiny pinnate leaves are pretty, but the large golden 
blossoms are the more attractive feature of the plant. They are at 
their best in May or June, according to season. Plant in ordinary 
garden soil. Regular pruning is not required. 

Spanish Bluebell. — {See Scilla.) 

Spanish Broom. — (See Spartium.) 

Spanish Chestnut. — {See Castanea.) 

Spanish Iris.— (Se^ Iris Xiphium.) 

Sparaxis. — ^These are showy and interesting bulbous plants 
(Natural Order Iridaceae) from South Africa. They should be grown 
on a sunny south border in a raised, well-drained bed of sandy loam, 
peat, and leaf -mould. Plant the bulbs in autumn or February, 2 to 
3 inches deep, and 3 inches apart. Increase is by offsets, the bulbs 
multiplying fairly rapidly in favourable surroundings. They may 
be left for several years without lifting and replanting. During winter, 
if the ground is likely to become very wet, it is advisable to place a 
light over the bed. Sparaxis have narrow Iris-like leaves and slender 
flower spikes, 12 to 18 inches high, in May and June. As may be 
seen by the following list there is considerable variation in the colour 
of the flowers : alba, white, rosy-lilac outside of petals ; Fire King, 
scarlet, black, and yellow ; grandifiora, crimson and black, yellow 
eye ; lutea, sulphur-yellow ; Nain, deep yellow, outside of petals 
striped brown ; tricolor, scarlet and black, yellow eye. The two 
species are Sparaxis grandiflora and tricolor, from which the other 
varieties named, and many more, have been raised in gardens. 

Spartium junceum (Spanish Broom). — This is a decorative 
shrub, native of South-West Europe, and belonging to the Pea family 
(Leguminosae). It is known by its long, slender, Rush-Hke branches, 
which contain a large amount of pith. The small oval leaves are 
not produced very freely, and their functions are partly fulfilled by 
the bright green bark. The shrub is of rather loose growth when 
left to itself, and it is a good plan to prune the shoots of young plants 
frequently in order to encourage a bushy growth. Older plants may 
be pruned once a year, in spring, for the flowers appear on the current 
year's shoots ; they are large and bright yellow, and borne over a 



420 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

considerable period during summer and early autumn, when flower- 
ing shrubs are particularly useful. As it grows well on dry, sunny 
banks, the Spanish Broom is doubly welcome in the garden, for it 
can be placed to advantage where many other plants would fail. 
Seeds are produced freely, and form the best means of increase. 
Young plants must be kept in pots until planted permanently, for 
they transplant badly. As it is not very long-lived, it is wise to 
raise young plants frequently. There is a variety flore pleno, with 
double flowers, but it is worthless in comparison with the type. 

Specularia {Venus' Looking Glass). — The only kind commonty 
grown is Specularia Speculum (Campanula Speculum), a hardy annual 
growing wild in some parts of Southern Europe. It belongs to the 
Bellflower family (Campanulaceae). The plants grow about 9 inches 
high and bear purple bell-shaped blossoms with white throat in 
summer. Sow the seeds in autumn or in spring, from March to May, 
where the plants are to bloom. From several sowings made during 
these periods an extended season of flowering may be expected from 
June to September. The plants thrive in ordinary soil, on a sunny 
or partially shaded border. 

Speedwell. — {See Veronica.) 

Spergula. — {See Sagina.) 

Spiraea. — The Spiraeas, which belong to the Rose family 
(Rosaceae), form an important group of flowering shrubs and her- 
baceous plants, several of which are of the greatest value for shrub- 
beries and herbaceous borders. They are found in Europe, Asia, 
and North America, and one or more kinds are to be found in flower 
from March to September. 

The shrubby kinds vary from dwarf bushes, which rise scarcely 
12 inches above the ground, to handsome wide-spreading specimens 
12 to 15 feet high. In some instances the blossoms are in small 
flat heads i inch or so across, and in others they are in large terminal 
panicles up to 18 inches long. All thrive in rich loamy soil, and 
are improved by an occasional surface dressing of well-rotted manure. 
They may in most cases be increased by cuttings of young shoots 
inserted in sandy soil in a closed frame in July. A few kinds, such 
as arguta and Thunbergii, are, however, rather difficult to increase 
in this way, but respond quite well if layered. For the purpose of 
pruning, shrubby Spiraeas are divided into two groups. Those that 
bloom in spring from short growths from the previous season's stems, 
such as Thunbergii, arguta, media, Van Houttei, canescens, etc., 
require no regular pruning, but may be cut hard back after flowering 
if they are outgrowing their positions. But another group, which 



SPIRAEA 421 

blooms during summer requires vigorous pruning. This group is 
represented by such kinds as japonica, salicifoHa, Menziesii, and 
Douglasii. They must be pruned in spring ; all weak shoots being 
cut away, and the strong ones shortened to within 12 or 15 inches 
of the ground. As a rule, these kinds produce shoots from the ground 
line freely, and may be divided occasionally. Vigorous sorts such 
as Lindleyana and Aitchisoni may also have the younger shoots 
shortened back fairly hard in spring, for in their cases also the flowers 
terminate the current season's shoots. The spring-flowering Spiraeas 
may be used with advantage for forcing. 

The following are the chief early-flowering kinds : arguta, 3 to 
4 feet, one of the best of all April- flowering shrubs ; bracteata, a vigor- 
ous June-flowering kind from Japan ; canescens, a vigorous shrub 
with a profusion of bloom in May ; confesta, a showy garden hybrid ; 
decumbens, from Europe, a dwarf sort, suitable for the rock garden ; 
Henryi, a new, June-flowering species from China ; media ; Thun- 
bergii, the eariiest of all to bloom, and an elegant bush in summer 
by reason of its slender shoots and dainty foliage ; and Van Houttei, 
a fine free-flowering bush, 10 feet high. All bear white flowers. 

Good late-flowering kinds are : Aitchisoni, a vigorous species from 
Afghanistan, growing quite 15 feet high and bearing very large, terminal 
inflorescences of white flowers in August ; Lindleyana is a very similar 
shrub, but the flowers are cream-coloured ; arborea is another of the 
same set, characterised by pinnate leaves and large inflorescences ; 
discolor, a large-growing decorative kind from North-West America, 
bears a profusion of cream-coloured flowers in July. All these are 
best increased by seeds. Spiraea japonica is a free-flowering kind 
from India, China, and Japan ; its reddish flowers are borne in large 
flat heads ; the varieties Bumalda, ruberrima, and Anthony Waterer, 
with red flowers, are handsome ; alba has white flowers ; and gla- 
brescens is very vigorous. Spiraea Menziesii, from North- West 
America grows very strongly, and bears dense heads of red flowers : 
the variety triumphans is the best of all, but there are numerous other 
free-flowering forms. Spiraea salicifolia, with white flowers, is also 
worth growing. 

Of herbaceous Spiraeas, the red-flowered paJmata from Japan is 
a handsome kind, suitable for planting near water ; Aruncus, with 
immense inflorescences of creamy-white flowers ; Filipendula, and 
Ulmaria, the Common Meadow Sweet, are all useful kinds. Plant 
in rich soil and increase by division in early autumn. The plant often 
grown in greenhouses as Spiraea japonica, is correctly Astilbe japonica, 
the true Spiraea japonica being a shrub. 



422 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Spiranthes {Ladys Tresses). — This is a widely distributed group 
of terrestrial Orchids (Natural Order Orchidaceae). Three kinds grow 
wild in Britain, but are not confined to these islands. They are : 
aestivalis, flowers white, on spikes 15 to 18 inches high, in July and 
August ; autumnalis, white, fragrant blooms on slender spikes, 6 to 
9 inches high, in August and September ; Romanzoviana, the largest 
of the three, which bears white flowers in August and September 
on a stem 6 to 10 inches high. Propagation is by division of the root- 
stocks in spring, when new growth is about to start. Plant in an 
open position in fibrous loamy soil containing chalk and a little 
leaf-mould. 

SprekeWa {Jacobean Lily). — The only species to mention isSprekelia 
formosissima (Natural Order Amaryllidaceae). It is a half-hardy 
bulbous plant from Mexico flowering in June or July. The crimson 
flowers resemble an Amaryllis ; in fact, the plant has been included 
by some botanists in that genus ; the flower stems are 12 inches or 
more high. Select a warm, sunny position at the foot of a south wall, 
and make up a well-drained bed of loam, leaf-mould, sand, and a 
little well-decayed manure. Plant the bulbs in February or March, 
covering with 3 to 4 inches of soil. Increase is by division of the 
offsets at this time. Do not disturb the bulbs for some years unless 
required for propagation. 

Spruce Fir.— {See Picea.) 

Spurge.— (5<?g Euphorbia.) 

Squill.— (5eg SciLLA.) 

Stachys {Woundwort). — Hardy perennials (Natural Order Labiatae) 
having flowers something like those of the Dead Nettle, but more 
showy, while one in particular, Stachys lanata, is excellent for edging 
beds and borders. The plants thrive in ordinary soil in sun or partial 
shade, and are readily increased by division in autumn or spring, 
at which times replanting should also be done. Stachys lanata 
(Lamb's Tongue), from the Caucasus, has silvery-white woolly leaves, 
and forms an excellent permanent edging for a bed or border, as it 
is only 3 or 4 inches high. It has purple flowers in June and July, 
but these are not very showy. As a flowering plant the Mexican 
Stachys coccinea is the most showy ; it grows 12 inches high, and 
has brilliant scarlet flowers from July to September ; it must be grown 
on a warm, sunny border, and except in mild districts the roots should 
be lifted and kept in a frost-proof frame in winter. This difficulty 
is often overcome by sowing seeds in a heated greenhouse during 
February and treating it as an annual. Stachys (Betonica) grandi- 
flora, from Asia Minor, is a showy plant with violet flower spikes 



STACHYURUS 423 

12 to 18 inches high, from May to July ; superba is a variety with 
rich purple-violet flowers. 

Stachyurus — A group of shrubs native of China and Japan 
and belonging to the Natural Order Ternstroemiaceae. Until within 
quite recent years one species only, Stachyurus praecox, was grown, 
and that was a very rare shrub ; now several kinds are available, 
of which the chief are praecox and Chinense. They are all deciduous 
with often reddish-brown bark and ovate leaves 5 or 6 inches in length. 
The flowers are yellow, and borne in pendent racemes from axillary 
buds in April. The immature racemes may, however, be seen through- 
out winter, for they are formed at the end of the growing season and 
remain dormant until early spring. All the kinds require warm, 
well-drained loamy soil, in which a little peat or leaf-mould has been 
dug. They may be increased by cuttings in summer inserted in 
sandy soil in a close and warm frame, or by layers put down in springs 
Regular pruning is unnecessary. 

Staphylea. — Shrubby plants, belonging to the Natural Order 
Sapindaceae, several of which are handsome when in flower and of 
considerable value for the shrubbery and for forcing for greenhouse 
decoration in spring. Although few kinds can be grown in the open, 
they come from widely separated countries ; thus one is from North 
America, one from Japan, one from the Caucasus, and one from 
Southern Europe. All have pinnate leaves, and the white flowers 
are followed by inflated bladder-like fruits, which contain the hard 
brown seeds. They must be planted in rich loamy soil in a sunny 
position, and propagation may be effected by means of layers or seeds. 
Except when the plants are outgrowing their positions, it is not 
necessary to prune them regularly, but those used for forcing are 
usually pruned to keep them dwarf and bushy. Such pruning is 
carried out after the flowers have fallen. 

Staphylea Bumalda, from Japan, is a bush 3 or 4 feet high, with 
small white flowers ; it is tender and not so useful as other kinds ; 
colchica, a native of the Caucasus, is a vigorous bush up to 12 feet 
high, it bears handsome inflorescences of white flowers in May ; pin- 
nata, from Southern Europe, is known as the Bladder-nut, it forms a 
large bush with white flowers. A hybrid between pinnata and colchica, 
called Coulombieri, is of very vigorous growth, and bears handsome 
heads of white flowers ; this and colchica are the best for forcing. 
Staphylea trifolia, the American Bladder-nut, is a large bush with 
few-flowered inflorescences and rounded fruits. 

Star of Bethlehem. — {See Ornithogalum.) 

Starwort. — {See Aster.) 



424 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Statice (Sea Lavender). — The Sea Lavenders include annuals, 
biennials, and perennials, and belong to the Natural Order Plum- 
baginaceae. They have elegant corymbs or panicles of flowers which, 
when cut and dried, are very useful for indoor decoration in winter. 
A sandy, well-drained loam is the most suitable soil, and they must 
have a sunny position, where they last in flower for a longer period 
than most plants. The perennials are best raised from seeds sown 
in a frame or on a border out-of-doors from April to June ; some- 
times also they are propagated by division in autumn or spring. 
Statice latifolia (the great Sea Lavender), 2 to 2^ feet high, is the best 
perennial for the border ; it has light and graceful inflorescences of 
small lavender-blue flowers from June to September ; it is native of 
Bulgaria and Southern Russia. The Caucasian Sea Lavender, Statice 
Gmelini, grows 18 inches high, and has dainty, purple-violet flowers 
from June to August. Statice incana, a native of Tauria and Siberia, 
12 inches, has pleasing reddish-pink flowers from July to September. 
Statice Limonium, though a native plant, may worthily occupy a 
place in the garden ; there are bluish-purple and white varieties. The 
dense- spreading panicles are about 18 inches high, and last in beauty 
from July to September. Some of the most useful flowers for cutting 
are provided by the florists' varieties, several of the best — notably 
Beauty, Lavender, and Lilac Queen — have been given distinctive names. 

The annual Sea Lavenders are grown in enormous quantities and 
sold as " Everlasting Flowers " in shops, and by street hawkers. 
These are mostly coloured varieties of a European species, sinuata. 
The Algerian Sea Lavender, Statice Bonduelli, with yellow flowers, 
is also popular. The seedlings should be raised under glass during 
March or sown on a sunny border outside in April. The last to men- 
tion is Statice Suworowi, from Central Asia, which is best treated 
as a biennial, sowing the seeds in a cold frame during July, though 
it can be grown as an annual from seeds sown in a heated greenhouse 
in February. This is the most beautiful of all the Sea Lavenders, 
having feathery spikes of delicate rose-coloured flowers lasting from 
June to September or October, according to the time of flowering. 

Stauntonia hexaphylla is an evergreen, climbing shrub belonging 
to the Barberry family (Berberidaceae). It is a native of Japan and 
China, and suitable for the southern counties, where it may be planted 
against a wall or trellis. The flowers are small, white, and appear 
during late spring or early summer. Plant in loamy soil ; increase 
by imported seeds, or by cuttings of half-ripe shoots inserted in sandy 
soil in a close and warm frame in summer. The surplus shoots should 
be cut well back after flowering. 



STENANTHIUM 425 

Stenanthium {Mountain Fleece).— Only one species is worth 
growing, Stenanthium robustum, from CaroHna. It belongs to the 
Lily family (Liliaceae), and is a stately plant, from 4 to 6 feet in 
height, with feathery, white flower plumes during August and Septem- 
ber. It is tuberous-rooted, and thrives in deeply dug and well- 
manured garden soil, in not too sunny a spot. Liquid manure is 
beneficial in summer to assist in the development of the large plume- 
like inflorescences. Increase is by lifting and dividing the tuberous 
roots in spring, which is also the best time for planting. 

Stephanandra is a group of shrubs belonging to the Rose family 
(Rosaceae). Two species only are grown ; they are flexuosa, from 
China and Japan, and Tanakae, from Japan. Although closely allied 
to Spiraea, they do not possess such showy flowers, for although 
blossoms are borne freely the colour is dull. The growth of each 
plant, however, is to its advantage, for the branches have a graceful 
poise. In winter the bright brown bark is very attractive, and a 
group or two of plants in the front of the shrubbery is desirable. Plant 
in ordinary garden soil ; increase by means of summer cuttings placed 
in a close frame, and thin out a number of the older shoots each 
spring. 

Sterculia. — An extensive class of trees and shrubs (Natural Order 
Sterculiaceae) found in Australia, India, Brazil, and other countries. 
Only one species is suitable for out-of-doors here, and that can only 
be grown in the warmer counties. It is Sterculia platanifolia, from 
China and Japan, and is chiefly noticeable by reason of its large and 
decorative leaves. It may be planted in a sunny position in the 
ordinary soil of Cornish gardens. Sterculia rupestris, from Australia, 
is a curious tree often called the Bottle Tree on account of its short 
swollen trunk, resembling a bottle in shape. The trunk is surmounted 
by a large, wide-spreading head. A few kinds, which are sometimes 
grown in greenhouses, are : acerifolia, caudata, diversifolia, lurida, 
and neocaledonica. 

Sternbergia {Lily of the Field). — These are pretty bulbous plants 
(Natural Order Amaryllidaceae) with yellow Crocas-like flowers, for 
a warm, sunny border or southern slope of the rock garden. Make 
up a bed of light, sandy, gritty soil, and see that it is well drained. 
The bulbs are planted 4 or 5 inches apart and 3 inches deep in light 
sandy soil ; those of the autumn-flowering kinds, in June or July, 
and those which flower in spring, in October. Increase is by offsets, 
the bulbs being lifted and divided at the times recommended for 
planting. The Sternbergias named below grow 6 to 12 inches high 
and have strap-Uke foliage : lutea (Winter Daffodil), from the Mediter- 



426 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

ranean region, flowers in September and October ; the var. major 
(angustifolia) has rich golden-yellow flowers ; minor is a dainty, 
small-flowered sort for the rock garden ; macrantha, from Asia Minor, 
opens its canary-yellow flowers in October. For flowering in April, 
grow Fischeriana, a native of Asia Minor, with clear yellow flowers. 

Stipa {Feather Grass). — A group of perennial grasses (Natural 
Order Gramineae), several of which are hardy and attractive for 
border decoration, as well as being useful to cut and dry for winter 
decoration. Increase is by division of the tufts in autumn or spring, 
and by seeds sown on a border outside in April or May. It is worth 
while hfting and dividing the clumps about every third year ; rather 
light garden soil is suitable. The flowering season is from June to 
August. The most ornamental are : gigantea, 3 feet, a native of 
Spain ; and pennata (pinnata), 2 feet, Europe. 

Stock.— (5^g Matthiola.) 

Stock, Virginian.— (5^5 Malcolmia.) 

Stokesia {Stokes' Aster). — Only one kind is grown, Stokesia 
cyanea (Natural Order Compositae), a hardy perennial, native of 
North America. It has lavender-blue Aster-like flowers from August 
to October, and grows from ij to 2 feet in height. There is a white 
variety alba and an early-flowering sort, praecox. Increase is by 
division in March or by seeds sown in a heated greenhouse during 
February, or a cold frame in May and June. Fairly light, rich soil 
and a sunny border meet the needs of this plant. 

Stonecrop. — {See Sedum.) 

Stranvaesia, which belongs to the Rose family (Rosaceae), is 
a new group to most gardens, for the two species have only been 
in general cultivation a few years, although one has been known 
for a considerable period in scientific collections. They are glau- 
cescens, from the Himalaya, and undulata, from China. Both are 
evergreen shrubs, bearing white flowers in May and red fruits towards 
the end of summer. They are better adapted for the south and south- 
west counties than for less-favoured localities, but are worth trying 
against walls where they do not succeed in the open ground. Any 
good garden soil is suitable for them, but that of a loamy character 
is most desirable. Seeds form the best means of increase, although 
branches may be layered. Regular pruning is not required, but a 
little is necessary now and then to keep the bushes in shape, and to 
keep those which are planted against walls in bounds. 

Stratiotes {Water Soldier). — Though a British water-plant, the 
Water Soldier (Natural Order Hydrocharidaceae) is worth introducing 
to the sides of our lakes and ponds. The only species is Stratiotes 



STREPTOSOLEN 427 

aloides, which has long sword-like leaves with spiny margins, and 
bears white flowers in summer. Increase is by division in spring, 
the pieces being planted in the mud at the bottom of shallow water 
during April. During the winter the plants are submerged ; they 
rise to the surface for the flowering season and sink again in autumn; 
The roots must be kept within bounds, for though a most interesting 
and uncommon plant, it sometimes increases too rapidly. 

Strawberry Tree. — {See Arbutus.) 

Streptosolen {Jameson's Browallia). — Streptosolen Jamesonii, from 
Columbia, is a free-growing greenhouse plant (Natural Order Solan- 
aceae), having brilliant orange-coloured flowers, and is used extensively 
in some gardens for summer bedding. As a climber of moderate height 
for clothing sunny fences and low walls in summer, this plant is strongly 
recommended. It thrives in ordinary potting soil, a mixture of 
loam, leaf-mould, and sand. Increase is by cuttings inserted in pots 
of sandy soil during July and August in a close propagating frame. 
Grow the plants in a cool greenhouse during winter, and plant out-of- 
doors in early June. When space in the greenhouse permits, the old 
plants may be lifted in autumn and returned under glass for the 
winter. 

Stuartia. — This group of hardy shrubs, which belongs to the 
Camellia family (Ternstroemiacea), is composed of a number of rare 
and showy kinds, which are worthy of more extended cultivation. 
Three species are grown, two from the Southern United States and one 
from Japan. All grow into large shrubs, if planted under favourable 
conditions, and blossom during July and August, a time when flower- 
ing shrubs are scarce. They are rather difficult to propagate by 
any means other than seeds, and should be kept in pots until it is 
possible to plant in permanent positions, for they dislike being dis- 
turbed at the root. Well-drained loamy soil, containing a little peat 
or leaf-mould, forms a suitable rooting medium, and it is wise to 
select a sunny position sheltered from cold north and east winds. 
Regular pruning is unnecessary. Stuartia pentagyna, from the Southern 
United States, grows from 5 to 8 feet high in this country ; it bears 
ovate, deciduous leaves and large white flowers, 3 inches across, of 
which one or more petals are deep red on the outside. Stuartia 
Pseudo-camellia grows into a small tree in Japan ; here it attains a 
height upwards of 15 feet. Both its leaves and flowers are smaller 
than those of the American kinds ; the flowers are white, about 
2 inches across, and appear in July and August. Stuartia Malacho- 
dendron (sometimes called virginica), a native of the Southern United 
States, takes its name from the old generic term of Malachodendron. 



428 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

It grows more than 8 feet high, and bears white flowers upwards of 
3 inches across, with clusters of purpHsh stamens. 

Stylophorum {Greater Celandine). — There are two or three 
kinds known, but only one is grown in gardens, and that is Stylo- 
phorum diphyllum, native of North America. It belongs to the 
Poppy family (Papaveraceae), and has elegant pinnate leaves, and 
in summer and autumn produces a succession of deep yellow blossoms ; 
it is a hardy perennial, growing about I2 inches high, and thrives in 
ordinary soil in a sheltered position in the rock garden or on a partially 
shaded border. Increase is by division in March, or by seeds sown 
on a border out-of-doors in April or May. 

Styrax. — Useful hardy shrubs or small trees (Natural Order 
Styraceae) with showy flowers during June and July. Of the known 
kinds some are natives of China and Japan and others of North America, 
Southern Europe, and Asia Minor. They are increased by seeds, and 
give the best results when planted permanently direct from pots. 
The most suitable soil is well-drained loam in which a little peat or 
leaf-mould has been dug. A sunny position sheltered from cold 
north and east winds should be chosen, and regular pruning is not 
desirable ; simply shorten branches here and there which may be 
outgrowing others and spoiling the symmetry of the plant. Increase 
is best carried out by means of seeds. Styrax americanum, a native 
of North America, forms a dense bush several feet high, bearing small 
white flowers. Styrax japonicum is one of the most decorative kinds ; 
it is a native of Japan and China, and forms a small tree or large 
bush, with small ovate leaves and showy white flowers borne from 
axillary buds, on long pendent stalks, during June or July. Plants 
20 feet high are to be found in this country. Styrax Obassia, from 
Japan, forms a small tree with large, handsome, broadly oval leaves 
and conspicuous inflorescences of white flowers ; it is a very beautiful 
plant. Styrax officinale, a native of Southern Europe and Asia Minor, 
is known as the Storax, on account of its producing a fragrant gum- 
resin known by that name ; it forms a good-sized dense bush, and 
bears white flowers. One or two new species have been introduced 
from China of late, but they are too uncommon to be available for 
general cultivation. 

Suaeda fruticosa is a bush widely distributed through the northern 
temperate regions, belonging to the Natural Order Chenopodiaceae. 
It grows about 3 feet high, branches freely, and is densely clothed with 
smalj greyish leaves. Although of no special garden interest, it is 
valuable as being one of a small number of shrubs which grow freely 
on land impregnated with salt, and in places where a saline atmo- 



SYCOPSIS SINENSIS 429 

sphere prevails. For this reason it is useful for planting on land in 
the vicinity of the sea, and is one of the plants that can be used for 
the clothing of sand dunes. Propagation is by seeds or cuttings, 
and pruning is limited to cutting back the ends of the branches in 
spring to encourage dense growth. 

Sumach. — {See Rhus.) 

Sunflower. — (5^^ Helianthus.) 

Sweet Pea. — {See Lathyrus.) 

Sweet William — {See Dianthus.) 

Sycamore. — {See Acer.) 

Sycopsis sinensis belongs to the Witch Hazel family (Hamameli- 
daceae), and is a comparatively new introduction from China. It 
forms a shrub several feet high, of rather loose growth, and bears 
ovate, evergreen leaves i inch to 2 inches long. As a flowering shrub 
it has not yet given evidence of its worth, whilst there are other 
evergreens of more decorative appearance. Plant in well-drained 
loamy soil. Regular pruning is unnecessary, 

Symphoricarpus racemosus {Snowbeny). — This is the best- 
known kind in its group, which belongs to the Honeysuckle family 
(Caprifoliaceae). It is native of North America, and well known 
as a bush 3 to 4 feet high, with oval, deciduous leaves, racemes of 
pinkish flowers in May, and white fruits which ripen in autumn. 
As it thrives well in sun or shade, it is an excellent shrub for under- 
growth, and is often used for that purpose in woods. Propagation is 
usually by division of the clumps, though seedling plants are often 
more vigorous and bear larger fruits. A plant of rather more graceful 
habit, with large quantities of fine fruits, has recently been grown 
under a variety of names, including Symphoricarpus mollis ; it, 
however, appears to be but a well-marked form of racemosus. Sym- 
phoricarpus orbiculatus, from North America, is known as the Indian 
Currant or Coral-berry, by reason of its small reddish fruits ; there is 
a variety variegatus with golden variegated leaves. Other kinds are : 
mollis, Heyeri, and occidentalis, all from North America. All grow 
well in ordinary garden soil, and give little trouble after they are 
once established. Pruning is not necessary except when the plants 
are becoming too large. Symphoricarpus racemosus stands cutting 
back well. 

Symphyandra. — These are pretty plants, members of the Bell- 
flower family (Campanulaceae), mostly treated as biennials, though 
sometimes under favourable conditions the roots are perennial. Sow 
the seeds from May to July, preferably in a cold frame. Plant in 
September or October and March in ordinary, well-drained soil in 



430 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

positions sheltered from the mid-day sun. They may be planted in 
the border or rock garden. Symphyandra Hofmanni has white bell- 
shaped blossoms from June to August, the plants grow i| to 2 feet 
high, and are natives of Bosnia ; pendula, from the Caucasus, grows 
12 inches high, having pale yellow flowers in leafy racemes during 
July and August ; and Wanneri is a rich, blue-flowered, rock garden 
plant, about 6 inches high, from Transylvania, flowering from June 
to August. 

Symphytum (Comfrey). — These arc hardy perennials of rather 
coarse growth, suitable for the shrubbery border, wild garden, 
woodland, or waterside ; they belong to the Borage family (Bora- 
ginaceae). Propagation is by division in autumn or spring. In the 
matter of soil they are not particular. Symphytum asperrimum, from 
the Caucasus, is the Prickly Comfrey, it grows 3 to 5 feet high and 
has bluish-purple flowers in May ; caucasicum, 2 to 3 feet, has hand- 
some foliage, and azure-blue flowers in May. The Scarlet Comfrey, 
officinale bohemicum, is a variety of the British Comfrey, with brilliant 
red flowers in May and June, height 2 to 3 feet ; tauricum, the White 
Comfrey, grows about 3 feet high, and has pretty creamy-white 
blossoms from April to June. 

Synthyris. — Dwarf perennial plants (Natural Order Scrophu- 
lariaceae) from the Rocky Mountains, thriving in ordinary, well- 
drained soil in the rock garden. Increase is by division in autumn. 
Synthyris pinnatifida has rich purple flowers in attractive spikes, 
about 9 inches high, from June to August ; plantaginea alba is a free- 
flowering white sort ; and reniformis has spikes of violet-blue flowers 
opening in June and July ; it is about 9 inches high, and prefers 
rather a shady position. 

Syringa (Lilac). — This is one of the most popular of all classes 
of shrubs, for it includes the Common Lilac, one of the finest 
flowering shrubs. Syringa belongs to the Natural Order Oleaceae, 
and consists of numerous species. Syringa vulgaris, the Common 
Lilac, is a native of Eastern Europe, from whence it was introduced 
about 1597 ; it is well known as a vigorous bush up to 20 feet high, 
or sometimes as a small tree with a distinct trunk, the large panicles 
of fragrant flowers appearing from terminal buds and from side buds 
near the points of the branches in May. It often forms many suckers 
from the base, and to this reason may frequently be traced the inferior 
flowering of certain bushes. Such suckers should be cut away, and 
weak shoots from the inside of the bushes must also be removed in 
order that the full vigour of the plants may be concentrated upon the 
perfection of the main shoots. Thorough ripening of the wood is 




C/5 

w 

< 



TAGETES 431 

also essential to success, therefore light and air must have free access 
to all parts. Pruning must be conducted on two occasions during 
the year. Look over the plants when the young shoots are about 
4 or 6 inches long, and remove any that are not required. Then, about 
July, look over them again and remove suckers (those from the base) 
and weak secondary shoots. The old flower-heads should also be 
cut off to prevent seed production ; this is specially necessary in the 
case of the garden varieties. Lilacs require rich loamy soil, and they 
may be further assisted by surface dressings of well-decayed manure 
and two or three applications of cow manure water during the season 
of growth. Propagation of the garden varieties is by grafting upon 
seedling stocks or by layers. Those raised from layers are the best, 
for the others are apt to produce vigorous suckers which weaken the 
plant. Lilacs are often used for forcing, and for this purpose they 
are grown specially, all weak shoots being carefully removed. They 
may only be forced successfully every second or third year. 

Of the many garden varieties, the following are worthy representa- 
tives. Singles. — Alba grandiflora, Marie Legraye, Noisettiana, white ; 
Aline Marqueris, reddish-purple ; Charles X., rosy-purple ; Geant des 
Batailles, dark red ; Madame Kreuter, bright rose ; Philemon, dark 
red ; Souvenir de L. Spath, dark crimson. 

Doubles. — Alphonse Lavallee, bright rose ; Charles Joly, dark red ; 
Dr. Masters, lilac ; Madame Abel Chatenay and Madame Lemoine, 
white ; Michael Buchner, lilac ; President Carnot, lilac. 

Syringa Chinensis, the Rouen Lilac, is considered to be a hybrid 
between vulgaris and persica ; it forms a shapely bush, 12 feet or 
more high, with handsome inflorescences of lilac flowers. Syringa 
Emodi, from the Himalaya, grows 15 to 20 feet high, and bears heads 
of white, pink-flushed flowers in June ; japonica, a native of Japan, 
bears large heads of cream-coloured. Privet-like flowers in June ; 
Pekinensis is a small tree from Northern China, with cream-coloured 
blossoms in June. Syringa persica is a dwarf, very bushy kind, 
growing 3 to 4 feet high, native of Afghanistan, and often called the 
Persian Lilac ; the hlac-coloured flowers are very fragrant, and the 
elegant inflorescences are borne in profusion. Syringa villosa, from 
Northern China, is remarkable for its very large inflorescences of 
rosy-red flowers. None of these species requires regular pruning. 

Tagetes {Marigold). — ^The principal species of this group of the 
Daisy family (Natural Order Compositae) are erecta and patula, 
known respectively as African and French Marigolds. They are 
natives of Mexico, and their cultural requirements, are simple. 
They are raised from seeds sown under glass in February, the 



432 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

seedlings being planted out-of-doors in May. Other useful kinds 
are : Tagetes lucida (Mexican Marigold), 12 inches, yellow, summer, 
Mexico ; and signata, il feet, yellow, summer, Mexico. 

Tamarisk.— (S^e Tamarix.) 

Tamarix {Tamar is k).~ShTnhhy plants or small trees (Natural 
Order Tamaricaceae) which have a peculiar liking for sea air, and 
may be planted in places fully exposed to the sea. However, they 
succeed well in inland gardens, and are often grown for their decora- 
tive qualities. The branches, as a rule, have a graceful poise, and 
are clothed during summer with delicate, bright green, tiny leaves. 
Some of the commoner kinds, more particularly anglica and gallica, 
are used for hedges in seaside towns. They stand clipping well and 
may be used in exposed places ; considerable use is made of Tamarix 
as a hedge plant in Southport about the shore gardens. All thrive 
well in poor soil, but appreciate that of a loamy character. Although 
regular pruning of all kinds is not absolutely necessary, those grown 
for flowering do better if cut back somewhat each year. Spring- 
flowering kinds should be cut back after flowering, and those which 
bloom on young wood are pruned in February. Propagation may be 
effected by cuttings of ripened shoots made 9 to 12 inches long and 
inserted deeply in an outdoor border during winter. As a rule, the 
whole cutting is buried except the upper 3 or 4 inches. 

Tamarix anglica, the common Tamarisk of the sea shores of Western 
Europe, sometimes attains the dimensions of a small tree with a trunk 
12 or 15 inches in diameter ; its pinkish flowers are borne freely ; 
gallica is a very similar plant. Tamarix Chinensis is a handsome 
kind from China and Japan ; its branches assume a plumose habit, 
and its bright green leaves and pinkish flowers are very effective. 
Pentandra blossoms in July and August, the upper 2 feet of each 
shoot being a handsome inflorescence, 2 feet long ; it should be planted 
in good soil, grown as a bush 3 to 4 feet high, and cut well back each 
spring ; it is sometimes known as hispida aestivalis. 

Tamarix tetrandra forms a large, wide-spreading bush, and bears 
a profusion of pinkish flowers in May ; it is native of the Mediterranean 
region. 

Tanakaea.— The only cultivated kind in this genus of the Rock- 
foil family (Saxifragaceae) is Tanakaea radicans. Of herbaceous habit, 
it is a low-growing plant of Japanese origin, suitable for a rather moist 
position, in sandy loam or peat, in the rock garden. Its white flowers 
are borne in summer in elegant inflorescences, and it is increased by 
seeds or by division during February or March. Seeds may also be 
sown in summer under glass as soon as ripe, and the tiny plants wintered 



TAXODIUM DISTICHUM 433 

in a cold frame. Even in spring it is wise to sow the seeds in pots 
of light soil under glass. 

Taxodlum distichum {Deciduous Cypress). — A very useful 
Conifer (Natural Order Coniferae) for planting in moist ground in 
the vicinity of water. In a state of nature it occupies swampy land, 
which is often flooded, in the South-East United States. It there 
grows more than lOO feet high, with a considerable bulk, the lower 
part of the trunk being often peculiarly swollen, whilst woody growths, 
2 to 3 feet high, spring from the roots round about the trees. Specimens 
over 100 feet high are found in several parts of the South of England, 
notably in the gardens at Syon House, Brentford, and Whitton Park, 
near Hounslow. Some of these trees have also developed the peculiar 
knees or root growths for which the species is famous. At Kew a 
tree may be seen which for many years has been growing entirely in 
water. When young, Taxodium distichum has a pyramidal outline, 
but the head becomes wide-spreading with age. During summer it 
is a conspicuous object by reason of the pleasant green foliage, whilst 
it is also attractive in autumn, for at that period the leaves turn 
brown previous to falling. Propagation is by imported seeds, and 
pruning is limited to keeping the leaders of young trees clear. In 
America the timber is of considerable importance for structural work. 

Taxus baccata {Common Yew) is the best-known representative 
of this group of Conifers (Natural Order Coniferae). It is native of 
Europe, and one of the three chief evergreen trees of the British Isles. 
It has been famous for many centuries, for when bows and arrows 
were important instruments of war, Yew wood was selected for 
the manufacture of bows. The Yew lives to a very great age, 
and many old trees are known which range between 500 and 1,000 
years of age. Many of these old trees are growing in churchyards, 
whilst others are found in the grounds attached to old abbeys. In 
such places they have usually short but very stout trunks and wide- 
spreading heads of branches, but when drawn up by other trees the 
trunk elongates and is often less than i^ feet in diameter. The wood 
is very hard and heavy, and takes on a very fine polish. As an ever- 
green, the Yew is of a rather gloomy appearance by reason of its dark 
sombre foliage, but it has numerous varieties with golden leaves. A 
pleasant feature of the Yew is seen in the showy, coral red fruits which 
ripen in August ; these are only produced, however, by certain trees, 
for male and female flowers are not borne by the same tree. The 
branches and leaves, especially when partly withered, are poisonous, 
and numerous cases of cattle poisoning have been recorded through 
cattle eating cut branches, 

3 C 



434 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Taxus baccata stands clipping well, and is often used for hedges 
and for topiary work. Yew hedges exist for a very long period, but 
are hardly so attractive as those of Holly. The Yew thrives in any 
good garden soil providing it is not subject to flooding, and may be 
increased by seeds or cuttings. The latter method of increase is 
preferred for hedge plants as a certain amount of variation often 
exists amongst seedlings. The clipping of hedges or topiary specimens 
may be attended to any time during summer. 

The most distinct form of the Yew is the Irish Yew, Taxus baccata 
fastigiata ; this is of stiff, upright habit. There is a variety with 
golden leaves ; and other good ones are fructu luteo, with golden 
fruits ; adpressa, with small leaves and rather dense habit, it has a 
variegated forni with pretty golden leaves ; aurea and Barroni are 
both showy golden-leaved kinds ; Dovastoni is of pendent habit ; 
elegantissima is of graceful outline, with golden variegated leaves ; 
horizontalis elegantissima is another pretty variegated kind ; whilst 
imperialis and procumbens should also be grown. Taxus canadensis 
is the North American Yew ; it differs little from the common kind. 
Taxus cuspidata is a native of the Mountains of Japan ; it has rather 
larger and brighter leaves than baccata. 

Tchihatchewia. — These interesting plants belong to the Wall- 
flower family (Cruciferae). One species only is available for the out- 
door garden, that being isatidea, a native of Asia Minor, where it was 
originally found at an elevation of between 5,000 and 6,000 feet about 
the source of the Euphrates. Of perennial duration, it forms a small 
plant of tufted habit with narrow leaves i| to 2 inches long, and in 
May produces a dense head of pinkish flowers in an inflorescence 
6 to 10 inches high. It can be increased by means of seeds sown in 
light loamy soil, as soon as ripe, in a cold frame, and the young plants 
should be kept under glass for the first winter, planting them out 
in well-drained loamy soil, in a sunny position, in the rock garden 
during April or May. 

Teasel.— (See Dipsacus.) 

Tecoma (Trumpet Floiver). — Handsome climbing plants (Natural 
Order Bignoniaceae), some of which are evergreen and others deciduous. 
They are usually of vigorous habit with pinnate leaves and good- 
sized tubular flowers. Two species are grown out-of-doors, but the 
majority require the shelter of a greenhouse. They are found in the 
West Indies, South America, Australia, China, and Japan, and South 
Africa. Tecoma grandiflora, a native of China and Japan, is a very 
strong-growing plant suitable for a wall with a south or west aspect 
in the South of England, whilst it also does moderately well in some 



TECOPHILAEA 435 

parts of the Midlands. It grows 15 or 20 feet high and bears tubular 
flowers, 3 inches long, of an orange- scarlet colour. Plant in good 
loamy soil and prune the side branches back in spring, for the inflor- 
escences terminate the current year's wood in September. Sanguinea 
is a red-flowered variety. Tecoma radicans, the Trumpet-flower of 
North America, is another showy, hardy kind which blooms in 
September. Cuttings from young shoots may be rooted in spring 
under glass. 

Tecophilaea {Chilian Crocus). — These ar& beautiful bulbous 
plants of small stature (Natural Order Haemodoraceae), natives 
of Chili. They are not very hardy in this country except in 
the warmest parts, and the best results are obtained by plant- 
ing them in warm and thoroughly drained, light loamy soil at the 
foot of a warm greenhouse wall. In the colder parts of the country 
it is wise to cover them with a handlight for the winter months. 
Propagation is usually by offsets from the old bulbs, though they 
may also be raised from seeds sown as soon as ripe in beds or boxes 
of light soil in a garden frame. Bulbs should be planted in October, 
on a shallow layer of sand about 3 inches below the surface of the 
soil. The chief kinds are : cyanocrocus, 6 inches, blue, spring (the 
var. Leichtlini is deeper blue than the type) ; and violaeflora, 6 inches, 
blue, spring. Now and then nice little clumps may be seen in the 
rock garden in the southern counties. 

Tel lima. — Hardy herbaceous plants, belonging to the Rockfoil 
family (Saxifragaceae). They are allied to Heuchera (Alum Root), 
but are less ornamental than the best of these. Two kinds are gener- 
ally grown : grandiflora, of Heuchera-like growth, with a dense cluster 
of prettily veined leaves and flower spikes of small yellowish flowers 
which rise to a height of i J or 2 feet in April and May ; and parvi- 
flora, an inferior plant, 12 inches or so high, which bears pinkish 
flowers in May. Both are natives of Western North America ; they 
require rather moist, peaty soil, or a mixture of light loam and leaf- 
mould. Propagation is by division in February or March and by 
seeds sown under glass about the same time. 

Teucrium (Germander). — This rather large group of the Sage 
family (Labiatae) is made up chiefly of neat-growing, hardy herbaceous 
plants with fragrant foliage, and some plants of shrubby or sub- 
shrubby growth. They are generally moderately hardy and succeed 
in ordinary garden soil, whilst propagation of the herbaceous sorts 
can be effected by division in February, and those of shrubby and sub- 
shrubby growth are increased by cuttings inserted in light soil under 
a handlight in summer. Several kinds are useful for small groups 



436 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

in the front of the herbaceous border ; others may be planted upon 
old walls, and the dwarf er kinds in the rock garden. Some of the 
principal species are : canadense, 2 feet, herbaceous, purple flowers, 
August, North America ; Chamaedrys (Germander), 9 inches, purple, 
summer, Europe, etc., suitable for walls, rocky ground, and ordinary 
borders (the var. foliis aureis has golden leaves) ; fiavum, 2 feet, yellow, 
summer, Mediterranean region ; this should only be planted in the 
southern counties. Teucrium fruticans is a loose-growing shrub, 
12 feet high, with lilac flowers in summer and autumn, Southern 
Europe, suitable for walls and trellises in the Midlands and South ; 
Marum (Cat's Thyme), a tiny shrub of dwarf. Thyme-like habit from 
South-West Europe, 6 to 9 inches high, with purple flowers in summer ; 
Polium (Poly Germander), 3 to 6 inches, is a shrub with yellow blooms 
in summer, it is native of the Mediterranean region, and should be 
grown in the rock garden ; Scorodonia (Wood Sage), 12 inches high, 
with yellow flowers in summer, is native of Great Britain.- 

Thallctrum {Meadow Rue). — Hardy herbaceous plants with light 
and graceful foliage and inflorescences ; they belong to the Butter- 
cup family (Ranunculaceae). They are widely distributed, for some 
are found wild in Europe, others in the Himalaya, China, North 
America, and other countries. The more vigorous kinds should be 
grown as groups in the herbaceous border, or be arranged on a more 
ambitious scale in the wild garden. Those of dwarfer growth may 
be given a place in the rock garden in a moderately moist position. 
The foliage of several kinds is useful for cutting for decorative pur- 
poses. They thrive in ordinary, good garden soil, and are increased 
by division of the clumps in February. Seeds may also be sown 
under glass at the same time, or as soon as they are ripe towards the 
end of summer. The following is a selection of the many kinds in 
cultivation : anemonoides, 3 feet, yellow, April, North America ; 
angustifolium, 3 feet, yellow, June, Europe ; aquilegifolium, 3 feet, 
purple, June, Europe (the var. atropurpureum has dark purple 
flowers) ; Chelidonii, 2 to 2J feet, purple, June, Himalaya ; Del- 
avayi, 2 to 3 feet, purple, June, China ; flavum, 3 to 4 feet, yellow, 
June, Europe ; minus, 12 inches, yellow, June, Europe — this has very 
pretty foliage, and there are numerous varieties, all of which are of 
peculiarly graceful habit : adiantifolium, affine, concinnum, flexuosum, 
and purpuresccns are all attractive. 

Thermopsis. — Hardy herbaceous plants belonging to the Pea 
family (Leguminosae). The majority of the cultivated kinds are 
natives of North America, though one, Thermopsis barbata, a very 
beautiful plant, growing 12 inches high and bearing purple flowers 



THLADIANTHA 437 

in June, is a native of the Himalaya. Useful North American sorts 
are : caroliniana, 2 feet high, with yellow flowers during June and 
July ; lanceolata, also a yellow-flowered plant, which grows 12 inches 
high and bears yellow blossoms in June ; montana, 2 feet, yellow, 
June ; and rhombifolia, i^ to 2 feet, yellow, June. In all cases the 
flowers are large and Lupin-like in appearance. Good loamy soil, 
which has been well manured, is suitable, and propagation is best 
effected by means of seeds sown under glass in February. As they 
do not care for root disturbance, it is better to dig round them rather 
than lift them when renovating the herbaceous border, which is 
the correct place for these plants. For the same reason it is not wise 
to try to increase the stock by division of the clumps. 

Thiadiantha. — The only species of Thladiantha, which belongs 
to the Cucumber family (Cucurbitaceae), available for growing out- 
of-doors is dubia. A native of China, it is a half-hardy climber of 
annual duration, bearing yellow flowers, succeeded by ornamental 
red fruits which ripen in autumn. Seeds should be sown in pots in 
a warm greenhouse during March, and the young plants grown in 
good soil to plant out in rich, well-manured loamy ground during late 
May or early June. When once established growth is very rapid, 
and a fence, trellis, or group of tree branches may soon be clothed 
with luxuriant growth. 

Thorn. — {See Crataegus.) 

Thrift. — {See Armeria.) 

Thuya {Arbor -Vitae). — This is a group of Conifers (Natural Order 
Coniferae) composed of several important evergreen trees natives 
of China, Japan, and North America. They are closely allied to the 
Cupressus, from which they may be distinguished by their longer 
cones. Some of them are important timber trees in their native 
countries, and although usually grown for decorative purposes here, 
one kind is sometimes planted under forest conditions. In some 
cases the species are inclined to vary, and a number of varieties have 
been given names. These are usually increased by grafting upon 
stocks of their respective types. In other cases increase is by seeds. 
The Thuyas give the most satisfactory results when planted in moist, 
but well-drained soil, and are most at home in places where the climate 
is pure and the atmosphere moist. In addition to being planted as 
decorative trees, some are occasionally used for hedges. They are 
not, however, so useful as many other shrubs for this purpose. 

Thuya dolabrata, a native of Japan, is sometimes sold as Thuyopsis 
dolabrata. In its native country it grows into a large tree ; here 
it forms a small pyramidal specimen clothed with ornamental green 



438 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

branches to the ground line ; the variety variegata is dotted over with 
patches of silver ; it is no improvement on the type. Japonica is a 
Japanese tree of medium height, less beautiful, however, than the 
previous kind ; orientalis, the Chinese Arbor- Vitae, forms a dense 
pyramidal bush 20 feet or more high, with the secondary branchlets 
standing at right angles to the trunk ; it has numerous varieties, of 
which aurea, with golden foliage, compacta, and densa, of dwarf habit, 
and glauca, with glaucous foliage, are very distinct. 

Thuya occidentalis is a very variable species from North-East 
America ; it is often called the American Arbor- Vitae, and is a tree 
of moderate growth. The varieties aurea and Ellwangeriana aurea 
have golden foliage, while there are many other varieties which differ 
in growth and colour of foliage from the type. Thuya plicata, often 
called gigantea and Lobbi, is a native of North- West America, 
where it forms a tree of the largest size and is known as the Red or 
Canoe Cedar ; its wood is very valuable in its native country, and 
the tree is planted under forest conditions here. As an ornamental 
tree it sometimes exceeds 100 feet in height. The leaves of this 
and Thuya occidentalis have a turpentine odour when rubbed. 

Thyme. — {See Thymus.) 

Thymus (Thyme).— Dwa-vi, fragrant-leaved shrubs or sub-shrubs 
are found in this group of the Sage family (Labiatae). The principal 
kinds are natives of Europe, one or two being included in the British 
Flora. The ordinary Thyme is grown in every kitchen garden, and 
its leaves and young shoots form one of the most poular flavour- 
ing herbs for culinary purposes. But the Thymes have other uses, 
for as flowering plants they have much to commend them while they 
are also planted for the fragrance of their leaves. They succeed in 
almost any garden soil, are well adapted for planting on stony ground, 
give good results in the rock garden, and are useful for planting in 
the crevices of walls. They are sometimes used with good results 
between the stones of paved paths, and form a distinct feature when 
planted in informal paths in the rockery or wild garden, providing 
the paths are not subjected to heavy traffic. Propagation may be 
by cuttings placed under a handlight in summer or by layering the 
shoots in fine soil, in spring or summer. A few stones are often used 
to keep the shoots down. The following are all desirable kinds : 
azoricus, 3 inches, purple, summer, native of the Azores, forms an 
attractive mass in the rock garden ; Chamaedrys, 3 inches, purple, 
summer, Europe, including the British Isles, a very useful kind for 
the rock garden, paths, walls, etc. ; var. montanus is a very dwarf 
kind from mountainous regions. Thymus Serpyllum (Wild Thyme), 



TIARELLA 



439 



I to 3 inches, purple, summer, native of Europe, including the British 
Isles, may be used for all kinds of sunny places, and is very attractive 
when in flower ; its variety citriodorus is the Lemon Thyme ; another, 
with golden variegated leaves, is very pretty, whilst the variety 
lanuginosus is remarkable for its woolly leaves and shoots. Thymus 
villosus, 3 to 6 inches, purple, summer, is a native of Portugal, and 
should be given a place on the rockery ; vulgaris is the Common 
Garden Thyme which is in such demand by housewives ; Zygis, 
I to 2 inches, purple, sum- 
mer, native of Spain, is a 
very dwarf kind, suitable 
for the rock garden. 

Tiarel\a{FoamFlower). 
— The best known Tia- 
rella, which belongs to the 
Rockfoil family (Saxifrag- 
aceae), is cordifolia, a 
native of North America. 
It is a hardy herbaceous 
perennial, growing about 
12 inches high, and is re- 
nowned for the elegance of 
its branched inflorescences 
of white flowers, which are 
at their best during April. 
It is suitable for the herb- 
aceous border or rock gar- 
den, where it should be 
given a moist position in 
light soil enriched by the 
addition of leaf-mould. 
Propagation is by seeds sown in a pan of light soil in a cold frame 
in spring, or by division of the clumps in February. Tiarella uni- 
foliata is also available ; a native of Western North America, it 
bears its light-coloured flowers in April. Similar conditions are re- 
quired to those recommended above. 

Tigridia {Tiger Iris). — Very beautiful bulbous plants are included 
in this group of the Iris family (Iridaceae). Tigridia Pavonia, the 
Peacock Tiger Iris, a native of Mexico, is the best-known species. 
Its flowers are amongst the most gorgeous of all garden flowers ; 
they are roughly triangular in outline, often 5 inches across, and 
scarlet, spotted with crimson, or in the various varieties, yellow, 




THE TIGER IRIS (Tigridia) 



440 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

orange, or white, spotted witli red. Unfortunately, the individual 
flowers are very fugitive, lasting but a short time at their best, but 
a succession of blossoms is kept up for several weeks during July 
and August. It grows from li to 2 feet high, and gives good results 
when planted in well-drained, but rich loamy soil in a position shaded 
from the fiercest midday sun. It is usual to plant the bulbs during 
March or April on a layer of sand 3 or 4 inches below the surface of 
the soil. In some places they are left in the ground for several years, 
but are usually lifted in the same way as Gladiolus and stored in a 
frost -proof but cool room for the winter. Offsets are produced freely, 
and they usually suffice for increase of stock, but seeds may also be 
sown as soon as ripe in a bed of sandy soil in a cold frame. Tigridia 
Pringlei, i^ feet, scarlet, orange, or cream, summer, Mexico ; and 
violacea, 12 to 18 inches, rosy-purple and white, early summer, Mexico, 
are other kinds which thrive under similar conditions to Pavonia. 
Several named varieties of Pavonia are offered by bulb merchants. 

Tilia (Lime). — The Limes (which belong to the Natural Order 
Tiliaceae) are found in Europe, North and Central Asia, and North 
America. They are known under the popular names of Lime or 
Linden, and the white soft wood is often called Bass Wood. Although 
the wood is not of great value it is popular for various kinds of work, 
such as carving, the sounding boards of musical instruments, keys of 
pianos, etc. The Limes thrive in light, dry soil, although the best 
results are secured by using soil of better quality. Propagation of 
some kinds is by seeds, and of others by layers of year-old shoots 
produced from coppiced plants. Pruning is necessary to keep the 
leading shoots free from rivals, and to check the undue development 
of side branches. 

Tilia americana, the American Bass Wood, is distinct by reason of 
its very large leaves ; it is sometimes grafted on a European kind, 
but is not a great success except when on its own roots ; argentea 
is the White Lime of Europe, and is distinguished by the grey or 
silvery undersurface of its leaves. Tilia dasystyla (euchlora), from 
the Caucasus, is one of the best of all Limes ; its leaves are bold, 
dark green, and glossy, and they keep their colour until late in the 
year, a trait not possessed by all the Limes ; the flowers have the 
familiar Lime fragrance. It is an excellent kind for avenues or for 
isolated specimens. Henryana and Miqueliana are new Chinese 
species, which promise to form ornamental trees ; mandshurica is 
not recommended, for it commences to grow very early, and often 
falls a prey to late frosts. 

Tilia petiolaris is one of the best of the European Limes. It forms 



TOFIELDIA 441 

a handsome tree, and retains its leaves well, the powerfully fragrant 
blossoms have a stupefying effect upon insects ; platyphyllos is one 
of the Common Limes ; it (together with vulgaris) has a serious fail- 
ing as an ornamental tree, for the leaves commence to turn yellow 
very early, often in August, and litter the ground for a considerable 
time. Moreover, the leaves often become very dirty during summer. 
There are numerous varieties of Tilia platyphyllos, of which aspleni- 
folia and filicifolia nova have curiously lobed leaves. 

Toadflax.— (S^g Linaria.) 

Tobacco — {See Nicotiana.) 

Tofieldia {False Asphodel). — Marsh-loving herbaceous plants are 
included in this group of the Lily family (Liliaceae). A few kinds 
are sometimes grown in gardens, but they are usually confined to 
botanical collections, although they might well be planted more 
extensively than at present in bog gardens, especially where the soil 
is of a peaty character. Propagation is by division of the clumps 
in February. Tofieldia calyculata, 4 to 6 inches, greenish-white, 
summer, Europe ; glutinosa, 6 inches, whitish, North America ; and 
palustris, 3 to 6 inches, pale green, summer, north temperate and 
arctic regions, also a native of the British Isles, are the available kinds. 

Tolmiaea. — ^The only kind is Tolmiaea Menziesii ; it is a member 
of the Rockfoil family (Saxifragaceae). A native of North- West 
America, it is allied to, and somewhat resembles in the leaves, the 
Heuchera, although at maturity a distinct difference may be noted, 
for the Tolmiaea produces tiny plants from dormant buds at the 
junction of the blade and stalk of each leaf. These tiny plants can 
be pegged down into sandy soil and be used for increase of stocks 
The greenish flowers are borne in inflorescences as in Heuchera, but 
they are not very attractive, and the plant is grown more on account 
of its peculiar leafage than for any beauty it may possess. It thrives 
in ordinary garden soil. 

Topiary Work. — This term is appHed to the clipping of various 
kinds of small-leaved evergreen trees or shrubs into fantastic shapes; 
It was very popular between the sixteenth and early part of the 
nineteenth centuries, and specimens a couple of hundred years old 
are still to be seen in some gardens. Fortunately, a more natural 
style of gardening came into vogue during the early part of last cen- 
tury, and topiary work died out except in a few old gardens. There 
has, however, been a disposition to revive it of late, which is a great 
pity, for this hard cHpping of plants into all kinds of abnormal shapes, 
which bear a more or less grotesque likeness to certain birds and 
beasts, pillars, tables, chairs, etc., is condemned by all true lovers of 



442 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Nature, The shrubs usually selected as victims are the various 
varieties of the Common Yew and the Common Box. It is necessary 
merely to select healthy, bushy plants, and clip them hard back 
several times a year into the desired shape, training young growths 
into the various directions where extra development is required. 
The old Yew trees at Hampton Court and the large one in Harlington 
Churchyard, Middlesex, were at one period clipped into formal shapes, 
but they have been allowed to grow freely for a century or more. 

Torch Lily — {See Kniphofia.) 

Torreya. — This is a small group of Conifers (Natural Order 
Coniferae) made up of evergreen shrubs or small trees suitable for 
planting in the warmer parts of the country. Three species are known, 
californica, commonly called the Californian Nutmeg by reason of 
its nut-like fruits ; nucifera, from Japan, the seeds of which are eaten 
in that country ; and taxifolia, from Florida, which is there called 
the Stinking Cedar. All bear a resemblance to the different kinds 
of Cephalotoxus, and their fruits are similar in shape. The leaves 
are from i inch to 3 inches long, dark green, and borne freely enough 
to make the bushes of decorative value. Increase is by seeds. Well- 
drained loamy soil suits, and pruning is limited to shaping the bushes. 
In the warmer parts of the country they grow into handsome specimens, 
and deserve extended planting in place of the Common Yew, for their 
leaves are of a less sombre character. 

Trachelospermum. — Two of these plants, which belong to the 
Periwinkle family (Apocynaceae), can be grown on a wall or trellis 
in the warmer parts of the British Isles, Both are climbers with 
evergreen leaves and fragrant flowers, the flowering time being summer. 
They require light and well-drained loamy soil to which the addition 
of a little leaf-mould at planting time is an advantage. Either a 
west, east, or south exposure is suitable, and propagation is by cuttings 
of half-ripe shoots, 3 or 4 inches long, inserted in light soil in a closed 
frame in July or August. The species are crocostomum, 12 to 15 feet 
high, flowers yellowish-white in heads nearly 3 inches long ; and 
jasminoides, 12 feet high, flowers white, in rather smaller heads. This 
is sometimes called Rhyncospermum jasminoides. Both are natives 
of China, The only pruning required is a little trimming into shape 
during early spring, 

Trachycarpus (Chusan Palm). — Trachycarpus excelsus is a 
fairly hardy Palm (Natural Order Palmae), a native of Japan, and 
sometimes called Chamaerops excelsa or Fortunei. In the neigh- 
bourhood of London it has been known to withstand 30 degrees of 
frost ; although the leaves were injured, the plants grew quite well 



TRADESCANTIA 443 

the following spring. It is, however, in the more southerly and 
westerly counties that it gives the best results ; there it may be seen 
as a vigorous tree 15 or 20 feet high, with a stout trunk and fine head 
of large fan-shaped leaves. The yellow flowers, though small in- 
dividually, in combination form very attractive and large inflor- 
escences, and in some gardens quantities of the small, hard, pea-shaped 
seeds are matured each year. When they fall on suitable ground they 
usually germinate freely and form a good means of propagation ; 
seeds may, however, be collected and sown under glass if desired. In 
either case young plants should be placed in permanent positions as 
early as possible. Deep and rich loamy soil is required, and an occa- 
sional top-dressing of well-rotted cow manure is attended by good 
results. Dead leaves must be removed each spring, but the fibre 
on the trunk should not be taken off. 

Tradescantia (Spider-wort). — Several hardy herbaceous plants 
are included in Tradescantia (Natural Order Commelinaceae). The 
best-known kind is virginiana, a native of North America, and known 
under the names of Virginian Spider-wort and Flower of a Day, the 
last name denoting the fugitive character of the flowers. This and 
other kinds thrive in any good garden soil, that of a light loamy 
character being most satisfactory, and are easily increased by division 
of the clumps in February or March. They should be planted as 
groups in the herbaceous border, as large masses in the wild garden, 
or for any other purpose where vigorous plants of compact habit, 
with a long flowering period, are required. Tradescantia virginiana 
grows from i| to 2| feet high, and bears purple flowers in succession 
throughout the greater part of the summer. Individual blooms last 
in full beauty for a very short time, usually about one day. There 
are several varieties ; alba has white flowers, and grandiflora bears 
larger and showier flowers than the type. Other species are : con- 
gesta, 2 feet, summer, North America ; Crassula, 18 inches, white, 
Brazil. 

Tragopogon (Goat's Beard). — The various plants found in this 
group of the Daisy family (Compositae) may be of biennial or peren- 
nial origin. They are not very showy, and are more suitable for the 
wild garden than for the herbaceous border. They may be expected 
to thrive in any ordinary garden soil, and are increased by seeds sown 
out-of-doors as soon as ripe, or kept in a cool room and sown out-of- 
doors or in a frame in March. The kinds usually seen are natives 
of Europe, two — porrifolius (Salsafy) and pratensis (Goat's Beard) — ■ 
being included in the British Flora. Tragopogon major, 5 feet high, 
with yellow blooms in May, is perennial, Europe ; pratensis, 12 to 



444 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

24 inches, bearing yellow flowers in June, is biennial ; and porrifolius, 
3 feet, with rose or purple flowers in May, is also biennial. Tragopogon 
porrifolius is the Salsafy of the vegetable garden ; it is grown for the 
sake of its long, thick, carrot-like roots. Seeds are sown ia deep, 
rich soil in April or May, in rows 12 to 15 inches apart, and the young 
plants are allowed to stand about 8 inches apart in the rows. The 
roots are lifted in autumn and stored for winter use. 

Traveller's Joy. — {See Clematis Vitalba.) , 

Tree Mallow. — {See Lavatera.) 

Tree of Heaven. — {See Ailanthus.) 

Tricyrtis {Toad Lily). — Perennial herbaceous plants with slender 
stems and curiously spotted flowers are included in this genus of 
the Lily family (Liliaceae). The various kinds are natives of the 
Himalaya, China, and Japan, and although fairly hardy are rarely 
seen at their best on account of the flowers opening late in autumn 
and being subject to injury by inclement weather. They should be 
given a sheltered position in light loam or peat, and may be increased 
by seeds sown under glass during spring or by division of the clumps 
in February. A position in a border at the foot of a warm green- 
house wall sometimes hastens the expansion of the flowers. Tricyrtis 
hirta, 2 to 3 feet, white on pinkish ground colour with purple spots, 
October, Japan ; macropoda, 2 to 3 feet, greenish-yellow with purple 
spots, October, China and Japan ; pilosa, 12 to 24 inches, white or 
pink with purple spots, October, Himalaya, are the best-known kinds. 

Trillium {Three-leaved Nightshade, Wood Lily). — A number of 
very interesting and beautiful herbaceous perennials are included in 
Trillium, which belongs to the Lily family (Liliaceae). They give the 
most satisfactory results when planted in moist, leafy, or peaty soil 
in a semi-shaded position, where they can be associated with advan- 
tage with Ferns, Windflowers, and Christmas Roses. All are natives 
of North America, and they are quite hardy. Increase is usually 
by division of the clumps in February or early March, though seeds 
can also be sown in boxes of peaty soil in a cold frame in February. 
Trillium grandiflorum, the Wake Robin, is the most important species ; 
it grows upwards of 12 inches high, produces ornamental, three-parted 
leaves, and large elegant white flowers in May. Other kinds are : 
cernuum, 12 to 18 inches, white, April ; erectum, i foot, purple, 
April ; erythrocarpum (Painted Wood Lily), 6 inches, red and white, 
May ; nivale, 12 inches, white. May and June ; ovatum, 6 inches, 
red, April ; and sessile, 6 to 9 inches, red, March and April. 

Triteleia. — Hardy or half-hardy bulbous plants are found in this 
group of the Lily family (Lihacea). They are usually included with 



TRITON I A 



445 



Brodiaea, and botanists regard Triteleia as a synonym of the former. 
Those still sometimes known as Triteleia are : aurea, 4 inches, yellow, 
April, North America ; laxa, 12 to 15 inches, blue, July, California ; 
and uniflora (Spring Star Flower), 3 to 6 inches, white, spring, Buenos 
Ayres. They must be planted in well-drained, light loamy soil, 
3 or 4 inches beneath the surface during autumn. Increase is by 
offsets from the bulbs. 

Tritoma. — {See Kniphofia.) 

Tritonia. — Showy bulbous plants belonging to the Iris family 
(Iridaceae). They are often called by the synonymous name of 
Montbretia, and cultural requirements and descriptions of species 
are given under that heading in this work. 

Trochodendron aralioides. — This tree belongs to the Natural 
Order Trochodendraceae, which includes several small but interesting 
groups of hardy trees and shrubs, such as Cercidiphyllum, Eucommia, 
and Tetracentron. Trochodendron aralioides is a native of Japan, 
where it forms an ornamental evergreen tree, the bark being used in 
the preparation of birdlime. It has been in cultivation in the British 
Isles for many years, but has never become common, although it is 
of interest by its glossy ever- 
green leaves and large clusters 
of yellowish flowers. It is 
better adapted for the southern 

than the northern parts of the 

country, and thrives in the 

open garden in warm, well- 
drained loamy soil into which 

a little peat has been dug, 

but it must have a position 

sheltered from cold north and 

east winds. Propagation is 

difficult by any other method 

than by seeds, which must be 

imported from Japan. Layers 

may, however, be tried. No 

systematic pruning is required. 
Trollius (Globe Flower). 

— Very attractive and desir- 
able border flowers are found 

in Trollius, which belongs to 

the Buttercup family (Ranun- 

culaceae). They exhibit some 




TRITONIA OR MONTBRETIA. 



446 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

considerable difference in stature, but are generally of compact 
habit and flower profusely in their respective seasons, one or more 
kinds being in bloom from early April until June. The flowers 
are, as a rule, some shade of yellow or orange, but considerable 
variation is noticeable. They are common in alpine meadows in 
Europe, the Himalaya, Siberia, etc., and under cultivation give 
good results in ordinary, moist garden soil which has been enriched 
with manure. Propagation may be effected by division at various 
times of the year. Some people divide the plants as soon as they 
have flowered, planting the pieces in a border shaded from bright 
sun and watering them carefully until new roots are active. 
Others divide them at the end of the growing season, about 
September, and others, again, in February or March. The last- 
named time is, as a rule, less satisfactory than the others. Seeds 
may also be sown in pots or boxes in a cold frame in February. The 
Globe Flowers are excellent plants for the herbaceous border, for 
naturalising in the wild garden, or for planting in moist places in the 
rockery. The following are all very useful kinds : acaulis, 6 inches, 
rich yellow, June, Himalaya ; altaicus, 12 to 18 inches, yellow, May, 
Siberia ; asiaticus (Asiatic Globe Flower), 12 to 15 inches, golden, 
with less globular flowers than most of the others, May, Siberia, etc. 
(var. aurantiacus has richly coloured flowers) ; europaeus (Mountain 
Globe Flower), 12 to 18 inches, lemon-yellow. May and June, Europe, 
etc. (var. albidus has white blossoms, napellifolius golden blooms, and 
Golden Globe rich golden flowers) ; and Ledebourii, 2 feet, yellow. 
May, Siberia. 

Tpopaeolum {Nasturtium, Indian Cress). — Very showy plants of 
annual or perennial duration are found in this group of the Geranium 
family (Geraniaceae). The flowers are usually brightly coloured, and 
each one produces a long spur containing nectar. They are mostly 
natives of Chili and Peru, occupying the higher regions, therefore 
the majority are suitable for the outdoor garden in this country. 
Some of the hardy perennial kinds have tuberous or rhizomatous 
roots, whilst one or two rather tender sorts are climbers, of which 
the branches persist for two or more years. The latter kinds are 
grown in greenhouses throughout winter and spring, and are planted 
out in summer. They are easily increased by cuttings inserted in 
pots of sandy soil under glass during spring or summer. The tuberous 
and rhizomatous kinds are increased by division of the roots during 
winter or early spring, and the annual sorts by seeds. Seeds of 
annuals can be sown under glass in March or April, or out-of-doors 
during the latter month. They are generally of very rapid growth. 



TROPAEOLUM 447 

and the more vigorous climbing kinds form shoots several yards long 
in the course of two or three months. For this reason, combined with 
their free-flowering qualities, they are very popular for planting to 
cover walls and trellises. There are few places where they will not 
grow, but a little frost in autumn is sufficient to injure them. The 
dwarf annual kinds are very useful for summer bedding, and con- 
tinue to bloom freely from June until the advent of frost. One or 
two dwarf bedding kinds can be increased by cuttings placed in pots 
in the greenhouse or frame in August and potted singly in January. 
From these, cuttings are again taken in spring. They are usually 
grown singly in pots until they can be planted out. 

Tropaeolum aduncum (Canary Creeper) is an annual, native of 
Peru, with long, slender, climbing branches which bear elegant green 
leaves and large numbers of yellow flowers ; it is of very rapid growth 
and a popular plant. Tropaeolum Leichtlini is of hybrid origin, and 
is suitable for planting on rockwork, where its scandent branches can 
trail over large stones ; it is of perennial habit, and bears yellow 
flowers with red spots. Tropaeolum majus is the common trailing 
or climbing Nasturtium of gardens, an annual from Peru ; its large 
flowers vary widely in colour, some being pale yellow, others deep 
yellow, orange, or brown, while the blooms of others, again, may be 
striped or double. There are also varieties of dwarf habit. Of the 
tall-growing sorts those described as Tall Crimson and Tall Yellow are 
specially worthy of note, whilst good dwarf kinds, suitable for bedding, 
are : Aurora, primrose to pink ; Cloth of Gold, yellow ; Crystal 
Palace Gem, spotted ; Empress of India, crimson ; Golden King, 
golden-yellow ; Ladybird, scarlet and yellow ; Pearl, creamy-white 
(all are about 12 inches high) ; King of Tom Thumbs, dark scarlet, 
and Queen of Tom Thumbs, scarlet and yellow, are somewhat dwarfer. 
Vesuvius is a scarlet-flowered climbing sort, which is grown on arbours 
and trellises during summer, but blossoms all the year round in a 
greenhouse. It is increased by cuttings during spring and summer. 
Tropaeolum polyphyllum is a perennial kind from Chili ; it produces 
scandent branches clothed with glaucous leaves, and bears large quan- 
tities of golden flowers during summer. Increase is by division of 
the underground stems during winter or early spring. It is seen to 
the best advantage when planted on rockwork in such a position that 
its branches can hang over the face of a miniature cliff. Tropaeolum 
speciosum, another Chilian kind, is also a perennial with creeping 
underground stems by which it is increased by division during winter 
or spring. Slender branches of annual duration grow to a height of 
12 or 15 feet, bearing dainty green leaves and scarlet flowers during 



448 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

summer. The blossoms are so brilliant that the plant is sometimes 
called the Flame Flower. It gives the best results in a fairly moist 
and cool situation, often at the foot of a wall with a west or north- 
west exposure, and in loam and leaf-soil. Tropaeolum tuberosum, 
from Peru, has tuberous roots, annual shoots and reddish-yellow flowers 
borne during late summer. Propagation is by division of the tubers 
during winter or early spring. 

Trumpet Flower. — {See BiGNONlA.) 

Tsuga {Hemlock Spruce).— Though there are but few species of 
Tsuga (Natural Order Coniferae), they are widely distributed, for one 
is found in the Himalaya, others in China and Japan, and three more 
in different parts of North America. Several are hardy throughout 
the British Isles, but others are only available for the milder parts. 
They thrive most satisfactorily in moist, but well-drained soil, which 
is fairly free from lime. A clear atmosphere and moist atmospheric 
conditions are desirable. Increase is by seeds, and pruning is limited 
to clearing the leading shoots of rivals and shortening overgrown 
side shoots. Tsuga Brunoniana, the Indian Hemlock Spruce, is found 
in the Himalaj^a and forms a handsome specimen in Devonshire, 
Cornwall, and Ireland. Tsuga canadensis is the Hemlock Spruce of 
North-East America ; it forms a large tree with usually several trunks 
springing from one base. It is inferior in beauty and timber value 
to Tsuga Mertensiana (Albertiana), from North-West America, how- 
ever, which is one of the most handsome of garden trees ; Pattoniana, 
from the Mountains of California, is a very beautiful but rather tender 
bush with glaucous leaves ; Sieboldi, the Japanese Hemlock Spruce, 
is a Yew-like bush, 15 feet or more high, native of Japan ; it might 
well be planted instead of the Yew in many places, by reason of its 
lighter habit and more pleasing foliage ; diversifolia and Yunnanensis 
are new, closely allied kinds. 

Tulip.— (Seg TuLiPA.) 

Tulip Tree. — {See Liriodendron.) 

Tulipa {Tulip). — This group is composed of a very large number 
of species and several distinct races of varieties which have been raised 
in gardens, and are included amongst those plants popularly described 
as " Florists' Flowers." The Tulips belong to the Lily family 
(Liliaceae), and have long been grown in our gardens. The species 
or wild types are comparatively little grown and have been supplanted 
by the florists' kinds, of which the respective groups are known as 
Early-flowering ; Late-flowering Cottage ; English Tulips, which are 
again subdivided according to the markings of the flowers ; Darwin 
Tulips ; and Parrot Tulips. 



TULIPA 449 

Tulips require well-drained loamy soil, but dislike fresh manure, 
and it is advisable to apply manure in spring to ground which is 
destined for Tulips, and take some other crop from it before planting 
the bulbs. It should be well dug, and the bulbs planted from 3 to 
4 inches beneath the surface between the middle of October and the 
middle of November. They are usually lifted each year, sometimes 
soon after the flowers fade, but the proper time is after the leaves have 
turned yellow. Bulbs lifted while the leaves are green deteriorate 
in quality, and are more likely to fall a prey to fungus diseases than 
those which are lifted later. It is not wise to leave them more than 
two years in one position except in the cases of those that are natural- 
ised ; neither is it wise to plant them on the same ground year after 
year. Bulbs grown repeatedly in the same soil usually deteriorate 
and often contract a fungus disease which is fatal to the bulbs, and 
known commonly as " fire." When once this disease appears, affected 
bulbs should be burnt at once and the ground kept clear of Tulips for 
several years. The presence of the disease may be known by poor 
growth, generally unhealthy foliage, and decaying of the bulbs. Pro- 
pagation is conducted by means of offsets ; these are planted in early 
autumn in beds 3 or 4 feet wide, in rows 4 to 6 inches apart, the bulbs 
being about an inch apart in the rows ; they quickly grow to flower- 
ing size. Seeds of species or of kinds which have been hybridised 
should be sown thinly in light soil in pans, boxes, or a prepared bed 
in a cold frame, as soon as ripe. When large enough to handle, the 
young plants are pricked out about an inch apart each way. It is 
wise to use a cold frame for the purpose, and to allow them to remain 
for two years without disturbance. 

A good selection of species or wild Tulips is as follows : australis, 
15 inches, yellow and red, April, South- West Europe ; Batalinii, 
8 inches, lemon-yellow, April, Asia Minor ; BilHetiana, 2 feet, yellow. 
May, Europe ; bifiora, 6 inches, white with yellow eye, April, Caucasus ; 
Clusiana, 8 inches, white and red with black base. Southern Europe, 
Orient ; Didieri, 2 feet, red, May, Southern Europe ; elegans, i foot, red 
with yellow eye. May, garden origin. Tulipa Gesneriana, 2 to 3 feet 
high, with red blooms in May, native of Southern Russia and Asia Minor, 
has exerted a considerable influence upon the production of the vigor- 
ous kinds of garden Tuhps. Tulipa Greigi, 9 to 12 inches, scarlet, 
April, Turkestan, is one of the most beautiful of all Tulips, the flowers 
being very large and brilliantly coloured. Others are Kaufmanniana, 
6 to 12 inches, April, white, yellow, or red, often striped and very 
showy, Turkestan ; macrospila, 2 feet, crimson with black blotch, 
May, garden origin ; sylvestris, i to 2 feet, yellow, April and May, 



450 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Europe, including the British Isles ; can be naturalised in grass land 
with little trouble. 

A selection of garden kinds is as follows : Single Early Flowering 
(April) — alba regahs, white ; Belle Alliance, scarlet ; Bride of Haarlem, 
crimson-scarlet, striped white ; Canary Bird, yellow ; Cottage Maid, 
rose, flushed white ; Crimson King, crimson-scarlet ; Duchess de 
Parma, red with orange margin ; Golden Eagle, gold ; Goldfinch, 
golden-yellow ; Keizerskroon, scarlet with yellow edge ; La Reine, 
white, shaded rose ; Pink Beauty, pink ; Pottebakker, scarlet or yellow, 
according to variety ; Rose Queen, rose ; White Swan, white. Double 
Early-flowering — Agnes, red ; Blanche Latine, white ; Blanche Rosette, 
rosy -white ; Due van Thol, red, edged yellow ; Duke of York, rosy- 
carmine ; La Candeur, white ; Prince of Wales, cerise ; Rosine, 
white and rose ; Snowball, white. 

May-flowering or Cottage Tulips — Albion, soft lilac ; Bridesmaid, 
rose, white striped ; Dainty Maid, white lilac ; Firefly, orange ; 
fulgens, scarlet ; Golden Beauty, yellow ; Golden Crown, yellow, 
edged scarlet ; Goldflake, orange-scarlet and gold ; Golden Eagle, 
yellow ; Maid of Holland, yellowish- white, striped ; Royal White, 
white with yellow centre ; Scarlet Emperor, scarlet with yellow 
centre ; Sweet Nancy, white, edged rose. 

Darwin Tulips {May flowering) — Antony Roozen, blush ; Car- 
minea, rich carmine-rose ; Clara Butt, soft, delicate rose, one of the 
most popular ; Dream, heliotrope, shaded lilac ; Europe, glowing 
salmon-scarlet ; Fanny, pale rose ; Glory, cherry-red ; Kate Green- 
away, white, shaded rose ; La Tulipe Noire, almost black ; Maiden's 
Blush, satiny-rose ; Mrs. Cleveland, blush, shaded rose ; Margaret, 
blush outside, pink inside ; Pride of Haarlem, salmon-rose, large ; 
The Sultan, maroon-black ; Wliite Queen, white. 

Parrot Tulips (these are remarkable for their ragged flower seg- 
ments) — Admiraal van Constantinopel, scarlet and orange ; Cafe 
Pourpre, brownish-red, flushed yellow ; Cramoisie Brilliante, crimson- 
scarlet ; lutea major, yellow with tips of scarlet and green ; Perfecta, 
golden-yellow, feathered with scarlet ; Preciosa, scarlet, striped yellow. 
Many more varieties of each kind are enumerated in bulb merchants' 
lists. 

Tunica. — Several elegant little annuals and herbaceous peren- 
nials, suitable for the rockery or wall garden, are contained in this 
group of the Pink family (Caryophyllaceae). Tunica Saxifraga is the 
most important species. It is a native of the mountainous regions of 
Europe, grows from 4 to 12 inches high, and is recognised by its wiry 
branches, which bear during July and early August innumerable tiny 



TUSSILAGO 451 

white or pink blossoms, the whole plant being suggestive of a minia- 
ture Gypsophila. Any light, stony soil is suitable, and the best way 
to establish it, either upon a wall or in the rock garden, is to sow a 
few seeds in March where the plants are to grow. Tunica olympica, 
from Asia Minor, and illyrica, from South Europe, are dwarf plants 
requiring similar treatment. 

Tussilago {Coltsfoot). — Tussilago Farfara, the Common Coltsfoot, 
a weed in sandy or stony ground in the British Isles, is the only authentic 
species that can be grown in this country, although other kinds, notably 
fragrans and Petasites, are sometimes included in the genus ; they, 
however, are correctly species of Petasites. Tussilago belongs to the 
Daisy family (Compositae), and is a low-growing, herbaceous peren- 
nial, with rounded grey-green leaves and creeping underground stems : 
the heads of yellow flowers rise to a height of from 4 to 6 inches, and 
appear in early spring in advance of the leaves ; it is showy, 
and often carpet poor ground where other plants would not grow. 
WTien once established it is difficult to eradicate ; the only way to 
get rid of it is to cut off the growths as fast as they appear. There 
is a variety with prettily variegated leaves. Tussilago fragrans 
(correctly Petasites fragrans) is the Winter Heliotrope ; it is a native 
of the Mediterranean region, grows about 12 or 18 inches high, and 
bears heads of fragrant purplish flowers in winter. Tussilago Peta- 
sites (Petasites officinalis), the Common Butter Burr, a British plant 
suitable for rough ground near water, grows 12 to 18 inches high, and 
bears purplish flowers in spring. All can be increased by division 
during winter. 

Typha {Reed Mace). — Ornamental water plants belonging to the 
Natural Order Typhaceae are found in this class. Two species, 
angustifolia and latifolia, are wild in many parts of the British 
Isles, and are well known by reason of their long grass-like leaves 
and tall, poker-like inflorescences and seed heads. When ripe, the 
fruiting portions are dark brownish-black, g to 12 inches in length, 
of a velvety character, and produced on stout stems 4 to 6 feet high. 
Both plants should be planted in water gardens, for they are amongst 
the most beautiful of tall-growing aquatics. They thrive in mud 
covered by 6 inches to 2 feet of water, and develop quickly into good- 
sized masses. To form colonies, take clumps of rhizomes a foot across 
and bury them in mud, or, if no mud exists, plant them in baskets 
of loam and sink them beneath the water. This may be done during 
January or February. In some places they are called Bulrushes, 
other common names being Club Rush and Cat's Tail. If the fruit- 
bearing rods are cut during early autumn before the seeds begin to 



452 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

disperse, they can be kept intact all winter and be used for decorative 
purposes. 

Ulex (Gorse). — This group of shrubs (Natural Order Leguminosae) 
is well known by reason of the commonest kind, Ulex europaeus, the 
Furze, Whin, or Gorse, of our commons and hillsides, which is one 
of the most beautiful of early-fiowering shrubs, its golden blossoms 
being conspicuous from January to May. Its intensely spiny shoots 
have led to its being used sometimes as a hedge plant, but its double- 
flowered variety is better adapted for that purpose and for planting 
in large, informal groups about the garden. In addition to being of 
more compact growth than the type, the double kind is of better 
appearance throughout the summer, for it does not bear seed pods, 
which have a rather disfiguring effect. It is increased from cuttings 
of short shoots inserted in sandy soil in a cold frame in August. Young 
plants must be grown in pots until they can be placed in permanent 
positions, for they transplant badly from the open ground. Plant 
in quite poor soil on dry, sand}'^ banks for preference, and shorten 
the branches a little after the flowers are over. Old plants may be 
cut hard back if necessary. The next most useful kind is Ulex Gallii, 
the French Gorse ; it blooms in August and September, and is remark- 
able for its close compact growth. Ulex nanus and parviflorus are 
other kinds of less value. 

Ulmus (Eljn) is an important group of trees belonging to the 
Natural Order Urticaceae. The various kinds are known as Elms, 
and are distributed through Europe, China, and North America. 
Several of them form trees up to go or loo feet high, while others 
are hardly more than bushes. They are popular for planting in 
parks and hedgerows, and fine examples are often found in gardens. 
The taller and more effective kinds are also used for avenues. It 
is not, however, advisable to allow large Elms to stand in the vicinity 
of houses or other buildings, for heavy branches of old trees are very 
brittle, and often fall from the trees without the slightest warning, 
such breakages being as likely to occur on a quite calm day as during 
rough weather. Elms have the faculty of rejuvenating them.selves 
after the leading branches have died, for if they are cut back well 
below the dead parts a new branch system starts again from adventitious 
buds upon the trunk and stumps of the branches. In the same way 
trees with badly decayed trunks will produce perfectly healthy foliage 
for many years. They thrive in almost any kind of soil, and some 
sorts are increased by seeds and others by suckers. Many varieties 
are usually increased by grafting upon stocks of their respective 
types. The varieties with weeping branches are amongst the most 



UMBELLULARIA CALIFORNICA 453 

popular of all weeping trees, the Weeping Wych Elm (Ulmus montana 
pendula) being perhaps the best of all ; it is frequently planted upon 
lawns. Those kinds of narrow fastigiate growth are also to be 
encouraged, more especially as street trees ; the Cornish Elm and 
Hertfordshire Elm are two of the best. Several Elms have prettily 
variegated leaves — a selection of the best includes campestris antarctica 
aurea, a dwarf tree with golden leaves ; campestris variegata, with 
silver variegated leaves ; campestris Louis van Houtte, a vigorous 
kind with golden leaves ; montana fastigiata aurea, a stiff, upright- 
growing tree with golden leaves ; and viminalis variegata, a slender 
elegant tree with silvery foliage. 

Of green-leaved Elms the following are all vigorous trees, suitable 
for parks or hedgerows : campestris, glabra, major, montana. For 
gardens americana, parviflora, and pedunculata may be used. Ulmus 
montana fastigiata is a stiff, columnar or, when young, pyramidal tree, 
of slow growth, suitable for small gardens. The pruning of Elms is 
directed towards securing unbranched trunks and symmetrical form. 
It may be carried out during summer. 

Umbellularia californica. — This is an evergreen bush, or tree 
in its native habitat, belonging to the Natural Order Lauraceae. It 
is a native of California, and is allied to the Bay Laurel, its leaves 
emitting a rather similar spicy odour when bruised. Although not 
very hardy, it thrives throughout the South and West of England, 
escaping injury except when a particularly severe winter is experi- 
enced. In those parts it grows into a shapely bush 15 feet high or 
more, with oblong leaves 3 to 4 inches long, of bright green shade. 
The yellowish flowers are small and are often borne in April or May. 
They are succeeded in warm, sunny summers by nut-like fruits | to 
f inch long. Plant in ordinary garden soil ; increase by seeds or 
cuttings, the latter being taken in summer and rooted in a close 
warm frame ; pruning, which is directed towards keeping the bushes 
shapely, may be done in summer. 

Umbrella Pine. — (See Sciadopitys.) 

Uvularia {Bellwort). — In this group of the Lily family (Natural 
Order Liliaceae) there are several pretty herbaceous perennials suit- 
able for planting in moist, peaty, or loamy soil in semi-shade. They 
are allied to the Solomon's Seal, and are easily increased in spring by 
division of the underground stems. Groups may be formed in shady 
parts of the garden, near the borders of a stream, just out of the 
water, or in thin woodland where the soil is fairly moist. Uvularia 
grandiflora, i foot to 2 feet high, native of North America, bears yellow 
flowers in May ; perfoliata, from North America, grows 12 inches 



454 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

high and bears yellow flowers in May ; and sessilifolia, from the same 
country, 12 to 15 inches high, has yellow flowers in June; 

Vaccinium. — A group of shrubs (Natural Order Vacciniaceae) 
widely distributed throughout the Northern Hemisphere ; two or three 
species are included in the British Flora. They usually occupy moist 
and, in some instances, boggy land, and are very fond of peaty soil. 
The majority dislike lime, and are not a success if planted in very dry 
situations. The native kinds are widely distributed upon commons 
and hillsides right to the north of Scotland. When planted in gardens, 
Vacciniums should be provided with cool, moist soil, and if possible 
be sheltered a little from the fiercest midday sun. They are increased 
by division of the clumps, by seeds, or by cuttings, and require no 
systematic pruning. The fruits of some kinds are used for culinary 
purposes and for dye, a case in point being our Common Bilberry or 
Blaeberry (Vaccinium Myrtillus). This is well known as a bush 
6 to 24 inches high, found throughout the country. Another British 
kind is the evergreen Vaccinium Vitis-Idaea, sometimes called the 
Cowberry. Though often but a few inches high, it sometimes grows 
to a height of i| feet ; the leaves are deep green, and the berries red. 

Of exotic kinds Vaccinium arboreum, the Farkle-berry of the 
South-East United States, is very showy with reddish flowers ; 
it is, however, rather difficult to grow well here. Vaccinium corym- 
bosum, the Blueberry or Swamp Blueberry of North America, is, on 
the other hand, one of the most accommodating kinds ; growing 
2 to 3 feet high, it forms a nice bush and bears its creamy-white rose- 
tinged flowers freely in April or May. Vaccinium crassifolium, hirsu- 
tum, japonicum, pensylvanicum, and uliginosum are other available 
species. 

Valerian, Red.— (S^^ Centranthus.) 

Valeriana (Valerian). — A considerable number of species are in- 
cluded in this group of the Natural Order Valerianaceae. Several 
kinds can be grown in the herbaceous border or rock garden, but, 
as a rule, they lack that delicate beauty which is usually associated 
with rock plants, and very few are of sufficient interest to justify a 
place in the border. They have also a rather disagreeable perfume. 
Valeriana Phu, the Cretan Spikenard, is, however, worth growing ; it 
reaches a height of 2 feet, has showy yellow leaves, and bears white 
flowers in August. It is a native of the Caucasus, and is increased 
by division in February ; ordinary garden soil suits. Valeriana 
officinalis is grown in this country as a field crop for the sake of its 
roots, which possess anti-spasmodic properties ; it is a native of 
Europe, including the British Isles, grows 3 feet high, and bears pinkish 



VALERIANELLA 455 

flowers in June. Clumps can be formed in the wilder parts of the 
garden with good effect. The pretty red-flowered border plant which 
is usually called the Red Valerian is correctly Centranthus ruber. 
It is seen in most gardens, a handsome border or wall plant, and is 
found wild in many parts of the country. Ordinary garden soil suits, 
and increase is by seeds or division during February or March. 

Valerianella {Corn Salad). — Herbaceous plants, often of annual 
duration, form this group of the Valerian family (Valerianaceae). 
Many species are found in the British Flora, but few are of sufficient 
interest to cultivate as border plants. They thrive in ordinary garden 
soil, and can be raised from seeds sown in spring. Valerianella carinata 
(Corn Salad), 6 to 12 inches, white, summer ; olitoria (Lamb's Lettuce), 
6 to 12 inches, white, summer ; Auricula, 6 to 12 inches, white, summer ; 
are a few of the kinds. 

Vancouveria {Barrenwort). — Hexandra is the only species of 
Vancouveria (which belongs to the Berberis family, Berberidaceae) 
available for cultivation in this country. It is a dwarf, interesting 
plant, native of North- West America, suitable for a moist position 
in light peaty soil in the rock garden. It is allied to Epimedium, 
and is seen as a tufted plant 9 inches high, bearing white or pale lilac 
flowers in May. Propagation is by division of the clumps in March. 

Veltheimia. — Bulbous plants from South Africa, belonging to 
the Lily family (Natural Order Liliaceae). They can only be grown 
out-of-doors in the mildest parts of the country, and even then must 
be given a position in light, well-drained loamy soil, at the foot of 
a wall for preference. Where, however, a frame with a southern 
aspect is available, they can be grown quite well, while they are also 
useful for the greenhouse. Propagation is by the removal of offsets 
from the bulbs. Veltheimia viridifoha is the best-known kind ; it 
has vivid green leaves 12 to 18 inches long, and bears large heads of 
flesh-coloured flowers on stems 12 to 18 inches long during summer. 
Veltheimia glauca is a somewhat similar plant, with glaucous leaves 
and flesh-coloured blooms. 

Venus' Looking-glass. — {See Specularia.) 

Veratrum {False Hellebore). — Hardy herbaceous perennials of 
vigorous habit, belonging to the Lily family (Natural Order Liliaceae). 
They are natives of Europe, Siberia, and North America, and thrive 
in any good garden soil which has been enriched with manure, for 
it is only when the large plaited leaves and vigorous inflorescences 
are developed to their greatest extent that their decorative qualities 
can be fully appreciated. Propagation may be conducted by means 
of seeds sown in boxes of light soil in a cold frame as soon as they 



456 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

are ripe, or by division of the clumps in February or March. They 
possess acrid, poisonous properties, and the rootstocks of one or two 
species are powdered and used to destroy insects. The rootstock of 
Veratrum album, a European species, provides the Wliite Hellebore 
powder of commerce. Some of the chief kinds are : album, 3 to 4 feet, 
greenish-white, June ; Maackii, 2 to 2^ feet, purplish, June and July, 
Siberia ; nigrum, 3 feet, almost black, summer, Europe, etc. ; viride, 
3 to 4 feet, greenish, summer, North America. Hellebore powder from 
Veratrum viride has been used in some countries for killing slugs and 
worms, whilst that from Veratrum album is often used for similar 
purposes here. They should not be planted in places where they 
are likely to suffer from drought. 

Verbascum {Mullein). — Hardy biennial or perennial herbaceous 
plants are found in this group of the Snapdragon family (Scrophu- 
lariaceae). There are many species widely distributed through 
Europe and Asia Minor, whilst representatives are found in the British 
Flora. They succeed in ordinary garden soil, while several grow well 
in pure sand. Propagation is by seeds sown as soon as ripe out-of- 
doors, or kept in a cool room and sown the following spring. Some 
kinds produce very large leaves and are worth a position in the garden 
for that reason alone. Verbascum Chaixi is a case in point. Gener- 
ally, however, they are grown for the sake of their tall inflorescences, 
which are densely clothed with yellow, purple, or violet flowers, accord- 
ing to the kind. Some kinds are suitable for clumps in the herbaceous 
border, but they are usually seen at their best when naturalised in 
large masses in a prominent position, or used as clumps in thin shrub- 
beries. Useful sorts are Blattaria (Moth Mullein), 12 to 36 inches, 
biennial, yellow, summer, Europe, including British Isles ; Chaixi 
(Nettle-leaved Mullein), 3 feet, perennial, yellow, summer, South- 
West Europe ; longifolium, 4 feet, biennial, yellow, summer, 
Europe ; nigrum, 2 to 3 feet, perennial, golden-yellow, summer, 
Europe ; olympium, 3 to 6 feet, biennial, yellow, very fine leaves, 
Bithynia ; phoeniceum, 3 feet, perennial, rose, purple, violet, or 
copper, summer, Europe and North Asia, a very pretty kind ; Thapsus 
(Flannel Plant), 2 to 6 feet, biennial, yellow, summer, Europe. 

Verbena. — Very beautiful flowering plants of annual or perennial 
duration (Natural Order Verbenaceae). There are many species, 
some of herbaceous and some of sub-shrubby growth, but compara- 
tively few are in general cultivation owing to the fact that numerous 
varieties have been raised which are far more popular than their 
respective parents for garden decoration. They are more tender 
than some of the species, and are not suitable for outdoor 



VERBENA 457 

cultivation throughout the year. They are, however, popular for 
summer bedding, and large numbers of plants are grown annually 
for that purpose. Some years ago the custom obtained of naming 
special varieties, and these were kept true to name by propagating 
them from cuttings ; now, most of the distinct colours can be raised 
true from seeds, therefore the more difficult task of increase from 
cuttings can usually be dispensed with, and seedling plants are, as 
a rule, more vigorous and less liable to contract disease than those 
raised from cuttings. There is, however, still a very popular variety 
in Miss Willmott, which must be raised from cuttings ; in this case 
the flat heads of flowers are a pretty pink shade. Wlien propagation 
is effected by means of cuttings, it is usual to cultivate a few plants 
in pots in a frame throughout summer. Towards October the tops 
are cut back well and in December the plants are placed in a warm 
greenhouse to form new growth. When the young shoots are 2 inches 
or so long they are removed and inserted in light sandy soil, or in 
a sand bed, in a warm and moist greenhouse. WTien rooted they are 
potted singly in 2- or 2|-inch pots and kept in a light greenhouse 
near the glass until early May, when they are removed to a cold 
frame, and are finally planted out at the end of May. The points of 
the shoots are removed several times, and repotting is practised if 
necessary. Another method of taking cuttings is to select short 
growths which are not showing flowers, in August, and insert them 
in 5- or 6-inch pots or boxes about | inch apart. Place them in a 
greenhouse until rooted, then keep them in a dry and cool frost-proof 
frame, and pot the young plants singly in January, giving similar 
treatment to those raised from spring cuttings. Seeds may be sown 
under glass in January or early February, the seedlings being pricked 
out in 2 parts loam, i part leaf-mould, and i part sand, in boxes ; 
the plants are eventually potted singly. It is usual to plant them 
in beds of single or mixed colours, and it is wise to peg the shoots to 
the soil until a complete ground covering has been obtained. Flower- 
ing is continuous throughout summer. Formerly such varieties as 
Scarlet Defiance, Royal Purple, Coelestial blue. Crimson King, Boule 
de Neige, Purple King, Pink Perfection, etc., were obtainable ; now 
seedsmen offer varieties which are quite equal in merit as Purple, 
Crimson, Blue, White, Pink, etc. 

Amongst species the following deserve attention : Aubletia (Rose 
Vervain), hardy biennial, 6 to 12 inches, red, purple, or lilac, summer. 
North America ; officinalis (Common Vervain), 12 to 24 inches, peren- 
nial, lilac, summer, Europe ; teucroides, 2 feet, perennial, pink or 
white, summer, Brazil, etc. ; venosa, 12 to 24 inches, perennial, lilac, 



458 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

blue or purple, summer, Argentine. Amateurs should avoid keeping 
their plants in a close, stuffy atmosphere after they are once rooted, 
for such conditions encourage the spread of mildew, to which Verbenas 
are rather subject. They are also better adapted for light, warm 
soils than for those that are heavy and cold. 

Veronica (Speedwell). — This group of the Snapdragon family 
(Scrophulariaceae) is made up of showy shrubs and herbaceous plants, 
together with many weeds, which are widely distributed through 
many countries. With one or two exceptions, the shrubby kinds are 
natives of New Zealand, and all are evergreens of more than ordinary 
beauty. Unfortunately, the majority are but half-hardy, and are 
only suitable for out-of-doors in the milder counties, but they are 
acknowledged to be among the most useful of all garden shrubs in 
those places. A few kinds are hardier, and may be grown in the 
Midlands. All the more vigorous sorts are suitable for specimen 
beds, groups in shrubberies, or informal hedges, while those of dwarf 
growth are excellent for the rock garden. As the various species 
bloom from early summer until Christmas, anyone with a small col- 
lection may have flowers for a period of seven or eight months. They 
thrive in ordinary garden soil and are easily increased by cuttings 
of young shoots inserted in sandy soil in a closed frame during summer. 
Regular pruning is unnecessary, but the points of the shoots may 
be removed if the bushes appear to be growing straggly. There are 
a great many shrubby kinds, of which the following are fair repre- 
sentatives : buxifolia, a neat-growing plant, 12 to 24 inches high, 
with small dark green Box-like leaves ; carnea, a bush 3 to 4 feet 
high, with long, narrow. Willow-like leaves and long inflorescences of 
pinkish- white flowers ; chathamica, a dwarf, compact shrub ; cupres- 
soides is a dwarf kind with small leaves, suitable for the rock garden ; 
diosmifolia is a compact plant 12 to 18 inches high, its racemes of 
small white flowers are very elegant. Veronica Hulkeana is a tender 
kind with very large terminal panicles of lilac flowers ; saHcifolia, 
5 feet high, bears long pendent racemes of white flowers. Veronica 
speciosa is a very variable kind ; it forms a large bush 5 feet high and 
more across ; the dense flower spikes may be composed of white, red, 
pink, blue, or purple flowers. Veronica Traversii is the hardiest of 
all ; growing 3 to 4 feet high, it is recognised by its small oval 
leaves and dense spikes of white, lilac-tinged flowers. 

The herbaceous sorts may be used for the herbaceous border or 
for the rockery. Many of them are very beautiful when in flower 
and are easily grown in ordinary garden soil, propagation being effected 
by division of the clumps. The following are all useful sorts : Veronica 



VESICARIA 459 

corymbosa is a pretty blue-flowered species growing up to 9 inches 
high ; it blooms during late summer and is suitable for the rock 
garden. Gentianoides, a native of South-East Europe, is usually 
grown for spring bedding ; its blue flowers are borne on stems 12 to 
18 inches high in May ; there are forms with white flowers and varie- 
gated leaves. Veronica longifolia is a favourite kind for the herbaceous 
border ; its long spikes of blue, white, or rose-coloured flowers, accord- 
ing to variety, are borne during August on branches 2 to 3 feet high ; 
spicata is a somewhat similar plant. Teucrium is a handsome blue- 
flowered sort which blooms in July ; its vars. dubia (rupestris) and 
Pseudo-chamaedrys are suitable for the rock garden ; virginica grows 
from 2 to 4 feet high and blooms in July. 

Vesicaria {Bladder Pod). — Rather curious and interesting peren- 
nial or annual plants of the Wallflower family (Cruciferae). They are 
of dwarf stature, thrive in ordinary garden soil, and are suitable for 
the herbaceous border or rock garden. All can be increased by seeds 
sown in light soil in a cold frame in spring, while those of perennial 
duration may also be propagated by division in spring or by cuttings 
during summer. Of the many kinds the following will be sufficient 
for most gardens : graeca, a sub-shrubby perennial, 6 to 12 inches 
high, yellow flowers in early summer, native of Dalmatia, etc., suit- 
able for a sunny position in the rock garden ; grandiflora, annual, 
9 to 12 inches, yellow, summer, Texas ; utriculata, perennial, 6 to 
12 inches, yellow, summer, Europe, suitable for a sunny position in 
stony soil in the rock garden. 

MeicY\.—{See ViciA.) 

Viburnum {Guelder Rose). — Showy shrubs from Europe, Asia, 
and North America, belonging to the Natural Order Caprifoliaceae. 
Many of them rank among the most ornamental of all shrubs, some 
being of value for their flowers, others for their foliage, and others for 
their fruits. Two kinds are natives of the British Isles, and they 
are very useful either for groups in parks and plantations or for 
garden planting. All may be grown in loamy soil, though one or 
two of the more delicate sorts appreciate a little peat in the soil. 
The deciduous kinds may be planted any time during autumn, winter, 
or early spring, but those with evergreen leaves are best put in during 
early autumn or late spring. Propagation is by cuttings of young 
shoots inserted in sandy soil in a close and warm frame during summer, 
while they may also be increased by seeds. Regular pruning is not 
required, but when plants are outgrowing their positions a little 
may be done during summer. 

Viburnum Carlesii is a very pretty species from Corea ; its rounded, 



46o THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

deciduous leaves are of a greyish hue, and its flat heads of fragrant 
flowers are of wax-like character, white, tinged with pink ; dilata- 
tum, a deciduous Japanese kind, bears creamy- white flowers which are 
followed by bright red fruits. Viburnum Lantana, the Wayfaring Tree 
of the British Isles, grows 4 or 5 feet high, and is recognised by its 
broadly-oval, grey-green leaves and large fiat heads of white flowers, 
which appear in May, to be followed later by showy red and black 
fruits. It thrives with conspicuous success on chalky soil. 

Viburnum macrocephalum, from China, is known only by the 
form which produces white, sterile flowers ; these are very similar 
to the sterile flowers of a Hydrangea, and are borne in large heads 
up to 6 or 7 inches across. It is of rather slender growth, and unfortu- 
nately rather tender, requiring the shelter of a wall except in the 
milder parts of the country, where it has been noted in excellent con- 
dition growing over the rocks of rock gardens. Viburnum odoratis- 
simum is a very vigorous, large-leaved evergreen from China ; it is 
sometimes met with 12 feet high and as far through in Cornish gardens. 
Viburnum Opulus is the Common Guelder Rose of our gardens, and 
is a familiar object in hedgerows in many parts of the country, where 
its white flowers followed by bright red fruits make it conspicuous, 
during May and late summer. The form with sterile flowers is, how- 
ever, more popular than the type ; the inflorescences appear in round 
heads, and as the mature flowers are white the common name of Snow- 
ball Tree has resulted. It grows from 12 to 15 feet in height and as 
far through. Viburnum rhytidophyllum is a remarkable shrub, which 
was introduced from China about twelve or fifteen years ago ; its 
evergreen leaves are strap-shaped and often 9 to 10 inches long, with 
a curiously wrinkled surface and the underside densely covered with 
brown felt ; the creamy-white flowers appear in large flat heads in 
May, and are succeeded by red and black fruits. It must be given 
a position sheltered from cold winds. 

Viburnum Tinus is the Laurustinus of gardens ; it is a native 
of the Mediterranean region and well known as a winter- and spring- 
flowering evergreen, the heads of white flowers being prominent from 
December until May ; lucidum is a vigorous, large-flowered variety. 
Viburnum tomentosum, from China, is a handsome bush 4 to 6 feet 
high, with flat heads of white flowers ; there are, however, varieties 
with sterile flowers known as plicatum and plicatum grandiflorum, 
which are more popular for garden planting. The round heads of 
white flowers are borne with great freedom in June, and they are 
amongst the first rank of flowering shrubs. Viburnum utile is a new 
kind from Central China, which promises to be of value by reason 





YUCCA KILAMENTOSA ON THE 
ROCKERY 



ADAM S NEEDLE (YUCCA 
GLORIOSA) 








t^^ 



AN ALPINE VIOLA VIOLA 
CUCULLATA) 



ONE OF THE MULLEINS 
(VERBASCUM DENSIFLORUM 



VICIA 461 

of its heads of white flowers. The sterile forms of Viburnum Opulus 
and tomentosum are excellent shrubs for forcing for greenhouse 
decoration in spring, 

Vicia (Vetch, Tare). — Annual or perennial plants with slender, 
prostrate, or climbing branches, or of sturdy, upright growth, are 
found in this group of the Pea family (Leguminosae). They have 
no great decorative value, though they are easily grown and the 
flowers are pretty. Several are natives of the British Isles and have 
some considerable value as fodder plants, whilst the seeds of others 
are used for human food. All are easily increased by sowing seeds 
in spring where the plants are intended to grow. When grown in 
gardens the slender kinds should be sown in round patches and be 
given a few birch twigs for support. A few kinds suitable for the 
garden are : argentea, 12 to 18 inches, summer, pink and black, leaves 
silvery, Pyrenees; Cracca (Tufted Vetch), 2 to 4 feet, blue, June, 
widel}' distributed in the Northern Hemisphere ; Faba, the Broad 
Bean of the vegetable garden, and its var, equina, the Horse Bean, 
though not suitable for the flower garden, are important food-stuffs 
and worthy of mention ; fulgens, 3 to 4 feet, scarlet, surtimer, Algeria ; 
orobioides, 12 to 24 inches, blue, summer, Southern Europe ; pyrenaica, 
12 inches, purple, May, Pyrenees. 

Vinca (Periwinkle) is a group of hardy and tender plants belong- 
ing to the Natural Order Apocynaceae. The most familiar kinds are 
the Greater and Lesser Periwinkles, Vinca major, and Vinca minor 
respectively. Both are trailing shrubs, natives of Europe, etc., and 
they are included in the British Flora. They are very useful plants, 
Vinca minor more particularly, for planting as an undergrowth to 
taller shrubs or for carpeting a thin wood. The larger plant grows 
about 18 or 24 inches high, and bears large blue flowers i inch to 
1 1 inches cross. Its var. elegantissima has pretty silver variegated 
leaves. Vinca minor scarcely attains a height of 6 inches, but forms 
a dense carpet and bears its showy blue flowers very freely in spring ; 
there are varieties with variegated leaves and with white, purple, or 
reddish single or double flowers. Both species are increased easily 
from cuttings or division of the clumps, and may be grown in any 
fairly good garden soil. Other outdoor kinds are : diffusa, from 
South-West Europe, and herbacea, also from Europe. All are dwarf 
plants. Pruning is unnecessary. Vinca rosea, from the Tropics, re- 
quires greenhouse shelter ; it forms an upright bush 18 to 24 inches 
or more in height, with showy red flowers, which are borne during 
the greater part of summer. The variety alba is similar to the 
type in all respects except that the flowers are white. 



462 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Vine. — {See ViTis.) 

Viola (Pansy, Violet). — This group of the Violet family (Violaceae) 
is of considerable importance in the garden, for it provides the races 
of plants known under the common names of Pansy, Viola, and 
Violet, each of which is represented by many varieties. In addition, 
it gives us many very beautiful alpine species which are attractive 
in the rock garden. Violas, too, are among our most charming wild 
plants, and man}^ banks and woods are made fragrant in spring by 
carpets of their blue or white blossoms. As a rule, the Violas are of 
perennial duration, though they are often grown as annuals or bien- 
nials. Seeds may be sown during early summer out-of-doors or in 
boxes under glass in February. It is, however, usual to cultivate 
many of the garden kinds of Pansy and Viola, also certain species, 
from cuttings. These are taken during July, August, or early September 
and inserted in a cold frame filled with light soil, leaf-mould and 
sand. The frames are kept fairly close until the cuttings are rooted, 
when as much air as possible is admitted, the lights being removed 
on all possible occasions ; excessive moisture and severe frost alone 
are excluded. This treatment results in strong, sturdy plants, which 
can be removed for permanent planting in March. Twenty years 
ago there were numerous named varieties of Pansy, but many of them 
have now disappeared in favour of the more easily grown seedlings, 
which from a good strain are quite as beautiful. Seeds sown in May 
produce seedlings suitable for pricking out, 4 to 6 inches apart, in 
a cold frame or open border in June. These form excellent plants for 
permanent planting either in October or March. When the flowering 
time is over they are usually destroyed. Violas are still largely grown 
from cuttings. Violets require somewhat different treatment, which 
is described under the heading of Violet. 

Some of the chief species are : alpina, 3 inches, purple, June, 
European Alps ; biflora, 3 inches, yellow, June, Alps, gives good 
results in crevices between rocks, in stony soil in the rock garden, 
or on walls ; calcarata (Spurred Violet), 6 inches, blue. May, Europe ; 
var. alba has white flowers, suitable for the rock garden, increased 
from runners ; canina (Dog Violet), is the pretty, blue, scentless Violet 
of our woods. Viola cornuta (Horned Violet), 6 inches high, with 
purple or blue flowers in spring and summer, is from the Pyrenees, 
an excellent sort for masses in the rock garden or for beds and borders ; 
it has a very long flowering season, and there is a white variety. Cucul- 
lata (Large American Violet), 4 inches high, with blue, purple, or violet 
flowers in spring and early summer. North America, is a very beautiful 
kind for a large mass in the rock garden; gracilis, 3 inches, June, purple, 



VIOLA 463 

Greece, is a very attractive kind for the rockery ; lutea (Mountain 
Violet), 3 to 4 inches, yellow, April to June, Europe, is suitable for 
rock gardens or a wall ; Mumbyana, 4 inches, purple, spring, Spain, 
is a pretty kind for the rockery. Viola odorata is the Sweet Violet 
of our woods, from which the garden Violets have sprung ; pedata 
(Bird's-foot Violet), 6 inches, bears blue, white, or purple flowers 
according to variety, in May, June, and is a showy and useful North 
American kind for massing in the rock garden ; rothomagensis (Rouen 
Violet), 6 inches, blue, summer, Europe, forms a pretty patch in the 
rockery ; tricolor (Heart's-ease Pansy) is the common wild species 
from which the garden Pansies have been raised. 

Florists' Pansies. — Pansies are well known as dwarf-tufted 
plants, which produce large flowers of rich velvety colouring 
during spring and early summer. The flowers are usually made up 
of two or more colours in which yellow, white, bronze, purple, or 
reddish-brown may be conspicuous ; the arrangement of the colours 
forms a means whereby the florist distinguishes certain types, but 
such distinctions are unnecessary for the present work. The cultural 
details have already been dealt with. As a rule, the finest flowers 
are borne during early spring, both size and colour deteriorating as 
the plants advance in age and the shoots become long and bare at 
the base. Any specially good forms can be retained by rooting cut- 
tings of young shoots in a frame in August, otherwise seeds are the 
best means of increase. They are said to have been raised from 
the British Viola tricolor and the Siberian Viola altaica. 

Tufted Pansies. — These are an important race of garden plants, 
for many kinds blossom continuously from early spring until early 
autumn. They were raised by the intercrossing of the garden Pansy 
with the long-flowering Viola cornuta ; the most floriferous kinds, 
and those with the best growth, are kinds in which the Viola cornuta 
predominates. Although they can be grown on from year to year, 
and may be increased by division, the best plants are raised each 
year from cuttings rooted as previously advised. Florists' Violas 
are invaluable for spring and summer bedding, and they can be used 
with advantage for bordering paths or for clumps in the front of the 
herbaceous border. The following varieties can be recommended : 
Christiana, Countess of Hopetoun, and White Empress, white ; 
Ardwell Gem, Bullion, Primrose Dame, yellow ; Blue Cloud, Countess 
of Kintore, Laverock, White Duchess, white and blue ; Duchess of 
Fife, Golden Fleece, yellow and blue ; Bessie Clarke, Duchess of 
Sutherland, J. B. Riding, mauve; Lilacina, Maggie Mott, hlac-blue ; 
Crimson King, Councillor Waters, crimson. There is also a strain 



464 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

with small flowers known as the Violctta ; it needs similar treatment 
to the ordinary Tufted Pansy. 

Violet. — The Violets of gardens have been raised from the Wild 
Sweet Violet (Viola odorata). They are important plants, not alone 
on account of their decorative garden qualities, but by reason of 
their value as market flowers, and also on account of the essential 
oil contained in their blossoms, which is expressed for perfumery 
purposes. The flowers are also candied and used in the preparation of 
sweetmeats. In the warmer parts of this country and in France, where 
large quantities are grown for our markets, Violets are planted in long 
beds in fields, and the flowers are gathered during winter and spring. 
The object aimed at by growers is to obtain large, well-developed, 
clean flowers on long vigorous stalks, and to secure this combination 
the plants must be grown in rich and deep, moist loamj^ soil. Pro- 
pagation is conducted in May, or as soon as the flowering season is 
over. Plants may either be divided into small sections or runners 
may be used. Plant in rows i6 inches apart, allowing 9 to 12 inches 
between each two plants in the rows, according to the variety. During 
summer give water when necessary and remove the runners and weeds 
now and then. In some gardens the beds are covered with lights 
raised 2 or 3 inches above the plants during the flowering time. In 
colder parts of the country the plants are lifted carefully in September 
and planted in frames in about 6 inches of soil on a slight hotbed. 
They are watered as soon as planted, kept close for a few days, and 
then well ventilated on all favourable occasions. Under these con- 
ditions large quantities of flowers are produced. Where long dry 
periods are usual in summer, the coolest position possible should be 
selected for summer quarters, otherwise the plants may be attacked 
and injured by red spider. 

Good varieties are : California, Czar, La France, Pnncess of Wales, 
blue or purple ; Wliite Czar, white (all single-flowered) ; and Comte 
de Brazza, white ; de Parma and Marie Louise, lavender ; Mdlle. B. 
Barron, blue ; and Neapolitan, mauve with white centre (all double). 
Princess of Wales, Czar, and Marie Louise are three of the best varieties. 

Violet.— (See Viola.) 

Virginian Creeper. — {See ViTls) 

Virginian Stock. — {See Malcolmia.) 

Viscum album {Mistletoe). — This belongs to the Natural Order 
Loranthaceae, and is a well-known parasite upon the Apple, Lime, 
Poplar, Oak, and other kinds of trees in some parts of the British 
Isles, more particularly Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, and adjacent 
counties. As the Mistletoe is a popular plant both by reason of its 



VITEX AGNUS-CASTUS 465 

use for Christmas decorations and its legendary associations, people 
usually like to possess a specimen. Male and female flowers are on 
different plants, therefore fruits are not borne by all. To establish 
it upon the Apple take fruits in February or March and rub the seeds 
lightly into natural crevices of the bark. Protect them from birds 
by means of a little netting, and leave them to look after themselves. 
Growth is very slow for two or three years. 

Vitex Agnus-Castus is the most useful shrub in this group, 
which belongs to the Natural Order Verbenaceae. It is a native of 
the Mediterranean region, and is only of sufficient hardiness for out- 
door planting in the milder parts of the country, and must then be 
grown against a wall with a south or west aspect. The white flowers 
are borne in large panicles at the points of the current year's shoots 
in September, their elegance and purity giving rise to the popular 
name of Chaste Tree which is applied to this shrub. The best show 
of flowers is seen after a sunny summer. Plant in warm, loamy soil, 
increase by cuttings in summer, and prune the previous year's 
wood back to within a bud or two of the base in February. 

Vitis (Vine). — This is an important group of chmbing plants 
(Natural Order Ampelidaceae), for besides Vitis vinifera, the Common 
Grape Vine, it contains numerous other ornamental kinds. They are 
chiefly natives of Asia and North America, although represented in 
other countries. There are both hardy and tender sorts, but for 
decorative gardening the hardy kinds quite surpass the others. There 
are many ways in which the hardy Vines may be grown with effect. 
Few plants are better adapted for planting on a pergola or for cover- 
ing an arbour, while certain kinds are of considerable value for clothing 
bare walls and trellises. It is possible, however, that they are seen 
to the greatest advantage when planted at the base of a tree or bush 
over which they may ramble at will. Wlien planted in positions 
where space is restricted, it is necessary to prune the branches back 
severely during winter and often a second time in early summer, 
but when placed against a tree or bush they may be left unpruned 
for many years. The Vines should be planted in really good loamy 
soil, and a surface-dressing of cow manure given occasionally is attended 
by good results. Propagation is by seeds, cuttings of soft wood in 
the case of the softer-wooded kinds, and of ripened wood or eyes 
for those of more vigorous growth. When Vines are planted to 
grow over trees or bushes, they must be inserted some distance from 
the trunk and, if possible, just outside the radius of the branches. 
A hole several feet wide, filled with good soil, must be provided in 
order to give the Vines a start. 



466 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Vitis arborea, from the Southern United States, is a decorative kind 
with doubly pinnate leaves ; it is suitable for the southern counties ; 
armata is a new species from China, with conspicuously prickly 
branches ; its leaves colour well in autumn. Vitis Coignetiae, a very 
free-growing Japanese plant, is one of the most satisfactory kinds 
for general planting ; its large handsome foliage sometimes colours 
well in autumn ; heterophylla, from China and Japan, is chiefly 
remarkable by reason of its small blue fruits in autumn. The var. 
humulifolia is often regarded as an improvement on the type. Vitis 
inconstans is better known under the name of Ampelopsis Veitchii ; 
it is one of the best of all self-clinging climbers, and may be grown 
almost anywhere, the brilliant colouring of its fohage in autumn is 
well known. The specific name of inconstans refers to the various 
shapes of the leaves found on the same plant. Vitis Labrusca, the 
Fox Grape or Skunk Grape of North America, is the parent of many 
of the North American cultivated Grapes, it is a very hardy kind, 
and has large handsome leaves ; megalophylla, a new species from 
China, is of interest by reason of its very large bipinnate leaves. Vitis 
quinquefolia, the common Virginia Creeper, is useful for planting to 
grow over bushes or trees, but a better plant is the closely allied kind 
Vitis Engelmanni ; the leaves colour brilliantly in autumn. Thomsoni, 
is a new kind from China, bearing five-parted leaves of a purplish colour. 
Vitis Thunbergii of gardens is a glorified Coignetiae, and a very 
vigorous and ornamental kind ; the true Thunbergii is less vigorous 
and produces smaller leaves. Vitis vinifera is better known by its 
fine fruiting varieties than by the type. The purple-leaved var. 
purpurea ought, however, to be grown. 

Vittadenia {Australian Daisy). — Vittadenia australis is the only 
kind in this group of the Daisy family that deserves attention for the 
outdoor garden. It is a native of Australia and New Zealand and 
closely allied to Erigeron. Growing about 9 inches high, it bears 
large quantities of Daisy-like flowers in summer, which are first pink, 
then white. It can be grown in the rockery or in the front of the 
herbaceous border in ordinary garden soil, and is increased by division 
of the clumps in February. It grows very readily from seed sown 
in April out-of-doors, and is often treated as an annual. 

Wahlenbergia. — This is a large and interesting group of the 
Bellflower family (Campanulaceae). It includes hardy and tender 
plants of annual or perennial duration, a few having partly woody 
branches. The hardy sorts require similar cultural conditions to the 
Campanulas, and some may be grown in the rock garden, others in 
the herbaceous border. All may be raised from seeds sown in the 



WALDSTEINIA 467 

greenhouse in spring, while the perennials can also be increased by 
division in spring. They Hke rather light, well-drained soil. Wahlen- 
bergia hederacea is a dwarf plant with creeping stems and pale blue 
flowers ; it is a native of Europe, suitable for the rock garden, and 
is sometimes called the Ivy-leaved Hairbell ; gracilis, 6 to i8 inches, 
a widely distributed plant in the Southern Hemisphere, is of annual 
duration, and bears blue, purple, or white flowers, according to variety. 
Kitaibelii, from Transylvania, is a perennial growing 6 inches high 
bearing blue flowers in summer ; it should be grown in the rock 
garden ; tenuifolia, 6 to 24 inches high, bears blue or white flowers 
in summer ; it is from Dalmatia. 

Waldsteinia. — Dwarf plants belonging to the Rose family (Rosa- 
ceae). They are natives of Europe, North America, and Siberia. 
A few may be planted on a dry bank or in the rock garden, but there 
are many more beautiful plants. Plant in ordinary garden soil and 
increase by division in spring or by seeds sown at the same time. 
Waldsteinia fragarioides, a creeping plant from North America, bear- 
ing yellow flowers in June, and trifolia, a low-growing European kind, 
producing yellow flowers during late spring, should be grown. 

Wallflower — {See Cheiranthus.) 

Wall -Rue. — {See Asplenium Ruta muraria.) 

Water Hawthorn. — {See Aponogeton.) 

Water Violet. — {See Hottonia.) 

Water Lily — {See Nymphaea.) 

Watsonia. — A number of half-hardy bulbous plants, natives of 
South Africa and allied to Gladiolus, are found in this group of the 
Iris family (Iridaceae). They can only be grown out-of-doors under 
the most favourable conditions in this country, and the most suc- 
cessful method is to plant the bulbs or corms in March or early April 
in deep, but well-drained loamy soil in a border at the foot of a warm 
wall. Each corm should be placed amongst a handful of sand about 
4 inches beneath the surface of the ground. In some gardens the 
plants arc even started in pots and planted out in May. As soon as 
the leaves die lift the plants, clean the corms, and store them in a 
frost-proof room for winter. Propagation is by offsets, which form 
in the same way as is usual with Gladioli. Watsonia Meriana, a plant 
growing 3 feet high, is one of the hardiest kinds, its large flowers are 
purple or scarlet in colour, but in the var. O'Bricni, which is quite 
as hardy, the blossoms are white. In each case the flowers appear 
during summer. Coccinea, 2 to 3 feet, scarlet, summer ; densiflora, 
2 feet, red, summer ; and rosea, 2 feet, rose, summer, are other useful 
kinds. 



46S THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Wattle.— (Seg Acacia.) 

Whitlavia.— Several useful annual or perennial herbaceous plants 
are sometimes included in Whitlavia, which belongs to the Natural 
Order Hydrophyllaceae. They are not, however, recognised by 
botanists as belonging to this group, but to Phacelia. Some of the 
chief sorts are : pinnatifida, from North America ; campanulata, 
divaricata and loasaefolia, from California. For descriptions and 
cultural directions, see " Phacelia." The annual plant usually grown 
as Whitlavia grandifiora is correctly Phacelia Whitlavia ; it has hand- 
some, bell-shaped, purple flowers, which open during summer ; seeds 
may be sown out-of-doors in March. 

Wigandia. — The Wigandias, which are members of the Natural 
Order Hydrophyllaceae, are tropical plants used out-of-doors in summer 
on account of their large handsome leaves. The various kinds are 
increased by imported seeds or by cuttings, and are grown rapidly 
in rich loamy soil, to plant out in well-manured ground in June. 
As soon as they become established, growth is quick and enormous 
leaves are formed. In autumn the plants may be lifted and stored 
under glass in winter, cuttings being obtained from them in spring. 
The chief kinds are : caracassana, from Mexico, and Vigieri and 
macrophylla from the same country. 

Willow Herb.— {See Epilobium.) 

Windflower. — (See Anemone.) 

Winter Cherry. —{See Physalis.) 

Wistaria.— Two kinds of Wistaria, which belongs to the Pea 
family (Leguminosae), are included amongst the best of all ornamental 
climbers. The commonest kind. Wistaria chinensis, is a native of 
China, and is well known as a vigorous climber capable of attaining 
a height of 40 or 50 feet, with pinnate leaves and dense pendent 
racemes of fragrant mauve-coloured flowers. The principal flowering 
time is late May or early June, but later inflorescences appear towards 
the end of summer. Although such a vigorous plant naturally, it 
can be easily stunted or dwarfed to make it suit almost any position, 
and it is frequently grown as a bush 2 to 4 feet high, for forcing for 
greenhouse decoration in spring. Fortunately, this dwarfing process 
does not impair, but rather adds to, its flowering qualities, and the 
most floriferous plants are often those that have become stunted. In 
view of this, the Wistaria is often pruned on the " spur " system. 
A number of branches are allowed to grow (the points being removed 
occasionally to ensure the development of side growths) and cover 
the wall or trellis space at disposal, then all secondary shoots are 
pruned back to form spurs. It is usual to look over the plants about 



WITCHES' BROOMS 469 

the end of June and then to shorten side shoots to within five or six 
buds of the base. During early winter further secondary shoots that 
have formed are removed, and the original side shoots — those that were 
" stopped " — are shortened to within two or three buds of the base. 
These hard pruned shoots gradually form large stunted branches 
which bloom with considerable freedom. 

There are few places where this Wistaria will not thrive, except, 
perhaps, in the extreme north. In the south it may be used for all 
kinds of purposes — namely, for covering walls, trellises, pergolas, 
arbours, or trees in the open ground. Plants grown in pots for the 
greenhouse may be forced for a number of years in succession by 
keeping them in the same pots and giving manure water now and 
then. The var. alba should also be grown. 

A second beautiful kind is found in the Chinese Wistaria multi- 
juga. In this case the fragrant mauve flowers are in less dense racemes 
than in Chinensis, but the racemes often exceed 3 feet in length. There 
is a white-flowered variety with racemes i8 inches long. Both are ex- 
cellent for pergolas, and they are the plants so freely shown by Chinese 
and Japanese artists. The correct treatment of this kind is similar 
to that advised for the other. All grow well in loamy soil and may 
be increased by layers. Other species are : brachybotrys, frutescens, 
and japonica. 

Witches' Brooms. — This term is applied to curious bunches of 
twiggy growths which are often seen in Birch and Hornbeam trees. 
They bear a resemblance to and are sometimes called Crows' Nests. 
As a rule, a few only occur on a single tree, although twenty or thirty 
or more may be found on some trees. They are due to an abnormal 
development of adventitious buds, brought about in the first instance 
by irritation caused by a fungus, often a species of Exoascus. Such 
growths are found more rarely upon other trees than Birch and Horn- 
beam, such, for example, as Cherry, Thorn, Lime, Sloe, Pine, Larch, 
Spruce, Chestnut, etc. On the Cherry they often assume a stiff, 
fastigiate growth, almost like an inverted birch broom, and are then 
called Mares' Tails. They do not, as a rule, cause the trees any serious 
harm, but there are other growths found on the Birch which are 
decidedly harmful. In time the trees become covered by small, 
stunted growths due to the abnormal development of buds through 
the presence of an insect closely allied to the Black Currant mite. 
Infested branches should be burnt, otherwise the whole tree may 
be killed. Small broom-like growths are also frequent upon Willow 
trees. They are due to the abnormal development of the catkins 
after being punctured and irritated by insects. 



470 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

Woodsia.— The Woodsias are pretty little ferns (Natural Order 
Filices) needing a moist, shaded position in the outdoor fernery or 
rock garden, and should be planted in light leafy or peaty soil near 
a brook or waterfall for preference. They rarely grow more than 
6 inches high, and are delicate in outline. Woodsia ilvensis, from the 
arctic and north temperate zone, and oregana and scopulina, from 
North America, are useful sorts. Propagation is by division in spring. 

Woodward! a. — Several vigorous and handsome ferns are in- 
cluded in Woodwardia, which belongs to the Natural Order Fihces. 
The hardier ones can be grown out-of-doors in the warmer parts of 
the country, where they make valuable additions to the hardy fernery ; 
they thrive best in light loam and leaf-mould or in peaty soil, in semi- 
shade, in the vicinity of water. Propagation is by division of the 
clumps in spring. Woodwardia areolata, from the United States ; 
japonica, from China and Japan ; virginica, from North America ; and 
radicans, native of the north temperate zone, are all vigorous plants 
with long, arching leaves. 

Wulfenia. — Several hardy, perennial, herbaceous plants are found 
in this group of the Snapdragon family (Scrophulariacea). Wulfenia 
Amherstiana, from the Himalaya, grows from 6 to lo inches high 
and bears blue flowers in July ; and carinthiaca, from Carinthia, an 
evergreen stemless plant, I2 to i8 inches high, also bears blue flowers 
in July. Plant in light loamy soil in a well-drained place in the rockery, 
and increase by division in February. 

Xanthoceras sorbifolia is a low tree or shrub in this country, 
a moderate-sized tree in its native country, China. It belongs to the 
Natural Order Sapindaceae, and is allied to the Horse Chestnut. In 
the South of England it may be grown in the open ground, but in 
colder parts it is probable that wall shelter will prove more satis- 
factory. In some gardens it is used for forcing for greenhouse decora- 
tion in spring. Its attractions lie in its pinnate leaves and dense 
inflorescences, 3 to 5 inches long, of white flowers marked with brown: 
Plant in well-drained loamy soil, and increase by imported seeds or 
layers. Systematic pruning of bushes is unnecessary. After flower- 
ing, wall plants may be pruned so far as is necessary to admit of 
their being trained to the wall. 

Xeranthemum {Immortelle). — Handsome annual plants with 
so-called everlasting flowers, which, when cut, remain attractive for 
a long period ; they belong to the Daisy family (Compositae). The 
flowers are known as Immortelles or Everlasting Flowers, and they 
are usually gathered when at their best, dried, and kept for winter 
decoration. The plants are of the easiest cultivation, and seeds 



XEROPHYLLUM 471 

should be sown out-of-doors in ordinary soil during late March or 
early April in the positions the plants are to occupy ; when the seed- 
lings are large enough to handle, thin them out to 3 or 4 inches apart 
each way. The best-known kind is Xeranthemum annuum, from 
Southern Europe ; it grows i^ to 2 feet high and bears purple, yellow, 
violet, or white single, semi-double, or double flowers. Seeds of mixed 
colours can be procured or either of the colours can be obtained separ- 
ately. Another kind is Xeranthemum cylindraceum, also from 
Southern Europe. 

Xerophyllum {Turkey's Beard). — Xerophyllum asphodeloides, a 
North American plant, is the only representative of this group of the 
Lily family (Liliaceae). It is a tufted plant, and forms a mass of 
elegant, grass-like leaves from amongst which the inflorescences of 
white flowers rise to a height of 3 or 4 feet during early summer. It 
requires light, moist soil, containing peat or leaf-mould, and does 
well in semi-shade. Propagation is by division of the tuberous roots 
during early autumn. 

Yucca (Adam's Needle). — This is a genus of attractive evergreens 
which produce large inflorescences of showy cream-coloured flowers 
between the end of July and early autumn. It belongs to the Lily 
family (Liliaceae), and contains a large number of species, a few 
only of which are sufficiently hardy for outdoor planting. The hardier 
species are from the South-East United States, and the strong- 
growing ones form large bushes 6 or 8 feet high, each branch being 
clothed with an immense head of strap-shaped leaves, each one 2 to 
3 feet long ; from the centre of the head a large panicle of flowers, 3 to 
5 feet high, appears at the proper season. They give the best results 
in a sunny position in well-drained loamy soil, and are excellent 
for planting on dry banks or on the higher points of the rockery. 
Large plants do not bear transplanting well, and it is wise to place 
plants in permanent places from pots. Fortunately, they succeed 
in both town and country gardens. Propagation is by offsets which 
appear freely from cut back stems in spring ; they are inserted as 
cuttings in pots of sandy soil, and quickly form roots if kept under 
glass. If a stem without roots is laid on a greenhouse stage it will 
produce good cuttings from adventitious buds. The tops of branches 
injured by wind may also be used as cuttings. Remove some of the 
lower leaves, tie the others together, and place the branch in a pot 
as a cutting. Keep it in a greenhouse, and do not give much water 
until roots are formed. 

The best kinds are Yucca filamentosa, from the South-East 
United States, a dwarf plant with scarcely any stem, spreading into 



472 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

a mass by means of side shoots ; the panicles of flowers are 3 to 5 feet 
high, and appear in July and August. Yucca glauca, a graceful low- 
growing plant with long, narrow glaucous leaves and panicles of 
flowers up to 4 feet high, is a native of the Southern United States 
and excellent for massing in the rock garden, etc. Yucca gloriosa, 
from the South-East United States, is an excellent evergreen 6 or 
8 feet high, with handsome heads of stiff leaves which are over 2 feet 
long and 2 or 3 inches wide ; the inflorescences are large and hand- 
some. Yucca recurvifolia is as vigorous a shrub as the last-named 
with as fine an inflorescence ; it is distinguished by its longer and 
narrower leaves, which have pendent ends and is native of the South- 
East United States. The two last-mentioned kinds are the best 
for general purposes. 

Zanthoxylum.— Trees or shrubs, usually with spiny branches, 
natives of India, China, Japan, North America, etc., and belonging 
to the Natural Order Rutaceae. Although not in the front rank 
of decorative plants, a few kinds are of suflicient interest for planting 
in the shrubbery, for the leaves are decidedly pretty, and although 
the flowers are not attractive, they are sometimes followed by brightly 
coloured fruits. They are good-natured plants, and do not require 
special attention ; they may be planted in ordinary garden soil, and 
require no other pruning save what is necessary to keep the plants in 
shape. Increase is by seeds. Zanthoxylum ailanthoides, from Japan 
and Formosa, is a decorative tree with long, Ailanthus-Iike leaves ; 
it is suitable for the milder counties. Zanthoxylum americanum, 
from the United States, is commonly called the Prickly Ash, or Tooth- 
ache Tree, on account of its supposed virtue as a cure for toothache. 
Other available kinds are : Bungei, piperitum, and schinifolium. 

Zea Mays {Maize). — This plant belongs to the Natural Order 
Gramineae, and is of considerable commercial importance in addition 
to being of decorative value. In many warm temperate and sub- 
tropical countries, it forms one of the principal agricultural crops, 
and even in temperate regions where a hot summer is experienced 
the corn can be ripened. It is an important plant in South Africa, 
Rhodesia, and British Central Africa, and is cultivated extensively 
in the United States, many European countries, India, Egypt, and 
elsewhere. The popular name of Maize is in general use in the British 
Isles, but in Africa it is recognised as Mealies ; elsewhere, Indian Corn 
and Pop Corn are popular names. Although little use is made of the 
ripe corn for food here, the unripe cobs are boiled and eaten as a 
vegetable, and in this state they have been compared with green 
peas. In this and other countries where tlie corn does not ripen 



ZELKOVA 473 

well, it can be produced large enough for use as a vegetable. To 
secure a crop for this purpose, sow seeds in boxes, pots or a bed in 
a frame in March. Let the plants stand well apart, and transplant 
them to rich and deepty-dug kitchen garden soil in May. Place the 
plants in rows 2^ feet apart and 2 feet apart in the rows. Should 
the weather be dry, give plenty of water during the period of growth. 
The cobs of corn, which are usually about 9 inches long, are in the 
proper condition for use when the seeds are about the size of Gradus 
Peas. There are several kinds with variegated foliage, and they 
are in great demand for sub-tropical and other kinds of decorative 
gardening. Sow the seeds in pots in Marcn, and place each young 
plant separately in good loamy soil in a 5-inch pot. Grow in a 
frame, and plant out in rich soil in May. Plenty of room is required, 
for plants may grow 5 or 6 feet high with fine leaves 2 to 3 feet long 
and 2 to 3 inches wide. Seeds of the variegated kinds can be obtained 
from any seedsman. 

Zelkova. — This is a group of hardy trees closely aUied to the 
Elms and belonging to the Natural Order Urticaceae. They are 
distinct by reason of their smooth greyish bark and often furrowed 
trunks ; the wood is very hard and valuable in countries where the 
trees grow wild. Here they are cultivated as ornamental trees only. 
The leaves are Elm-hke, but the leaf and the branch system are 
usually lighter than in the Ehns. They may be planted in good 
loamy soil, and are increased by imported seeds. Pruning is directed 
towards keeping the leading shoots free from rivals and shortening 
side branches when they are outgrowing the leaders. Zelkova crenata, 
a native of the Caucasus, is the commonest species, and numbers of 
fully-grown trees, 50 to 60 feet high, may be found. Zelkova acuminata, 
from Japan, is an important timber tree in Japan, the wood being 
very prettily figured and useful for building and cabinet work ; it 
is of elegant growth here. Another but very rare species is Zelkova 
Verschaffelti, of East Asia. 

Zenobia speciosa is a very decorative shrub belonging to the 
Heather family (Ericaceae). It is found in the South-East United 
States, from Florida to North Carolina, and succeeds in this country 
when planted under similar conditions to Kalmia and Pieris. Mature 
plants are from 2 to 3 feet high, and are recognised by their broadly 
oval leaves which are i to 2 inches long and greyish-green in colour, 
and by the wax-like white flowers which are borne in profusion from 
axillary buds in May and June, or in some cold districts they may 
be as late as July. Showy as the typical kind is, however, it is 
eclipsed in beauty by the var. pulverulenta, of which the leaves and 



474 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 

stems are clothed with a mealy glaucous covering. When propagating 
the plant it is a good plan to sow seeds of this variety, then a good 
percentage come true, and the remainder represent the typical sort. 
Plant in moist soil free from lime, and limit pruning to the removal 
of the points of the branches which have flowered as soon as the 
flowers are over. Within the last few years a demand has sprung up 
for plants of Zenobia for forcing for greenhouse decoration in spring ; 
they are lifted in autumn, placed in pots, and brought into bloom 
in a cool greenhouse. 

Zephyranthes {Zephyr Flower, or Swamp Lily). — Zephyranthes 
Candida, a dainty, little bulbous plant from the Argentine, is the only 
species of this group of the Amaryllis family (Amaryllidaceae) a\'ail- 
able for the outdoor garden. Growing 3 to 6 inches high, it is suit- 
able for bordering paths, for planting in beds, or for clumps in the 
rock garden. Its grass-like leaves are retained for the greater part 
of the year and its white dainty flowers appear during July and 
August. It thrives in ordinary garden soil, and is increased by 
division of the clumps, for the bulbs form large numbers of offsets. 
In cold districts it should be planted at the foot of a wall. 

Zinnia. — The Zinnias are half-hardy annuals belonging to the 
Daisy family (Compositae). Zinnia elegans, a native of Mexico, is 
the best-known and most useful kind. Growing about 2 feet high, 
it branches freely and bears handsome heads of flowers 2 to 3 inches 
across during summer. The flowers vary in colour from white to 
yellow, orange, bronze, purple, scarlet, and red. Seeds are sown 
under glass in March, in a compost of 2 parts loam, i part leaf-mould, 
and I part sand. The young plants should be pricked off in boxes 
or in a bed of soil on a slight hotbed and planted out in well-manured 
soil towards the end of May. Good varieties are alba flore pleno, 
double white ; atrococcinea flore pleno, double crimson ; aurea flore 
pleno, double yellow ; coccinea flore pleno, double scarlet ; purpurea 
flore pleno, double purple. Other species are : Zinnia Haageana, 
12 inches, orange, summer, native of tropical America ; pauciflora, 
2 feet, yellow, summer, from Mexico ; and tenuiflora, 2 feet, scarlet, 
summer, from Mexico. 

Zizania {Indian Rice). — Two ornamental grasses are found in 
Zizania (Natural Order Gramineae). One, Zizania latifolia, is a 
perennial from Siberia and Japan, growing 5 to 6 feet high, with long, 
strap-shaped leaves ; it should be grown in rich mud near the margin 
of a lake, where the roots are covered by a few inches of water. It 
is easily increased by division of the clumps in spring. The other 
species, Zizania aquatica, is a native of North America, where the 



ZYGADENUS 475 

Indians have used its seeds for food in times of scarcity ; it is a very 
handsome plant of annual duration, and attains a height of from 
8 to 12 feet with handsome foliage and tall, stately inflorescences. It 
must be planted in rich soil a few inches beneath the surface of water, 
and be protected from water-fowl. It is a good plan to sow seeds 
in pots of loamy soil placed in a tank of shallow water under glass, and 
keep the plants in a frame until mid-May, then plant them out. In- 
crease is entirely by seeds, and the seeds can only be kept sound until 
the sowing time, February or March, by placing them in water. They 
may either be stored in a jar and the water be changed frequently, 
or they may be tied in canvas and sunk in a pond out-of-doors. 

Zygadenus. — This group, which belongs to the Lily family 
(Liliaceae), comprises several bulbous plants which have no great 
claim on the gardener, their interest being of botanical rather than 
horticultural character. They require well-drained, light loamy 
soil, and are increased by separating the offsets from the parent bulbs 
after the death of the leaves. A few species are : Zygadenus elegans, 
2^ feet, greenish-white, July, North America ; glaberrimus, ij feet, 
white, July, North America ; NuttaUii, i| feet, white, July, CaUfornia. 



INDEX TO POPULAR NAMES 



POPULAR NAME 



BOTANICAL NAME 



Abele 


Populus alba 


PAOR 

349 


Acacia, False 


Robinia 


• 379 


Acacia, Rose 


Robinia hispida 


• 380 


Aconite, Winter 


Eranthis hyemalis 


167 


Adder's Tongue 


Ophioglossum 


312 


Agrimony 


Agrimonia . 


16 


Alder, Common 


Alnus glutinosa . 


21 


Alder, Mountain 


Alnus viridis 


22 


Alder, Speckled 


Alnus incana 


22 


Alkanet 


Anchusa 


29 


Allspice 


. Calycanthus 


82 


Almond, Common 


Prunus Amygdalus 


357 


Aloe .... 


Agave 


15 


Alyssum, Sweet 


Alyssum maritimum 


25 


Andaman Marble . 


Diospyros Kurzii 


157 


Anemone, Apennine 


Anemone apennina 


32 


Anemone, Poppy . 


Anemone coronaria 


32 


Anemone, Wood . 


Anemone nemorosa 


33 


Anemone, Yellow Wood 


-. Anemone ranunculoides 


33 


Angelica Tree 


Aralia spinosa 


39 


Apricot 


Prunus Armeniaca 


359 


Apricot, Japanese . 


Prunus Mume 


359 


Arbor-vitae . . . . 


. Thuya 


437 


Arrow Head 


Sagittaria . 


391 


Artichoke 


. Cynara 


138 


Arum, Black 


Arum sanctum 


45 


Arum, Italian 


Arum italicum 


45 


Ash ... . 


Fraxinus 


187 


Aspen .... 


Populus tremula . 


350 


Asphodel 


Asphodelus 


48 


Asphodel, Bog 


Narthecium ossifragum 


303 


Asphodel, False 


Tofieldia 


441 


Asphodel, Giant 


Eremurus . 


168 


Asphodel, Leafless. 


Asphodeline 


48 


Aster, Cape . 


Kaulfussia amelloides . 


241 


Aster, China 


. Callistephus hortensis . 


80 


Avens .... 


Geum 


199 


Avens, Mountain . 


Dryas 


160 


Azalea, Indian 


Rhododendron indicum 


374 


Balm 


Melissa 


283 


Balm Bee 


Monarda 


292 


Balm, Honey 


. MeUttis 


284 



478 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 



POPULAR NAME 

Balm of Gilead 

Balsam 

Bamboo 

Bamboo 

Banana 

Bane-berry 

Barberry 

Barley 

Barren Wort 

Basil . 

Basil, Wild 

Bay, Sweet 

Bead Plant 

Beam, White 

Bean, Wild 

Bear berry 

Bear Bind 

Bear's Breech 

Bear's Ears 

Beech . 

Beet . 

Belladonna 

Bellflower 

Bell Flower, Asiatic 

Bellflower, Chimney 

Bell Flower, Chinese 

Bellflower, Gland 

Bergamo t 

Berry, Pheasant 

Bigwood 

Bindweed 

Bindweed, Hedge 

Birch . 

Bird's-foot Trefoil 

Bitter Sweet 

Blackberry, Wild 

Blackthorn . 

Bladder-nut . 

Bladder Senna 

Blanket Flower 

Bleeding Heart 

Bloodroot 

Bluebell 

Bluebell 

Bluebell, Californian 

Bluebell Creeper, Australian 

Bluebell, Italian 

Blue Gum 

Bluets . 

Bog Bean 

Borage . 

Bottle Gourd 

Bottle Tree . 

Box . 



BOTANICAL NAME 

Cedronella triphylla 

Impatiens . 

Arundinaria 

Phyllostachys 

Musa .... 

Actaea 

Berberis 

Hordeum vulgare 

Epimedium 

Ocimum 

Calamintha chenopodium 

Laurus nobilis 

Nertera depressa 

Pyrus Aria 

Apios 

Arctostaphylos Uva-ursi 

Calystegia . 

Acanthus 

Auricula 

Fagus 

Beta vulgaris 

Atropa 

Campanula . 

Ostrowskia magnifica 

Campanula pyramidalis 

Platycodon grandiflorum 

Adenophora 

Monarda 

Leycesteria formosa 

Sequoia gigantea 

Convolvulus 

Calystegia sepium 

Betula 

Lotus 

Solanum Dulcamara 

Rubus fruticosus 

Prunus spinosa flora pleno 

Staphylea pinnata 

Colutea 

Gaillardia . 

Dicentra 

Sanguinaria . 

Campanula rotundifolia 

Scilla nutans 

Nemophila 

Sollya 

Scilla italica 

Eucalyptus 

Houstonia 

Menyanthes 

Borago 

Lagenaria 

Sterculia rupestris 

Buxus 



INDEX TO POPULAR NAMES 



479 



POPULAR NAME 

Box Edging 

Box Elder 

Box Thorn . 

Bracken 

Bramble 

Bramble, White-stemmed 

Bridal Wreath 

Broom 

Broom 

Broom, Butcher's . 

Broom, Spanish 

Browallia, Jameson's 

Bryony 

Buck Bean, Fringed 

Buckeye 

Buckthorn 

Buckthorn, Sea 

Bugbane 

Bugle . 

Bugloss 

Bull Bay 

Bur, New Zealand 

Burning Bush 

Butter Burr 

Buttercup 

Butterfly Flower . 

Butterfly Weed 

Butternut 

Butter Wort 

Calico Bush 
Calla, Marsh 
Calvary Clover 
Campion 
Campion 
Campion, Rose 
Canary Creeper 
Candytuft 
Candytuft, Burnt . 
Candytuft, Lebanon 
Candytuft, Persian 
Canterbury Bell 
Cape Pond Weed 
Carnation 
Carpenter's Leaf 
Castor Oil Plant 
Catchfly 
Catmint 
Cat's Ear 
Cedar . 

Cedar, Japanese 
Cedar, West Indian 
Celandine 
Celandine, Greater 



BOTANICAL NAME 

Buxus suffruticosa 

Acer negundo 

Lycium Chinense 

Pteris Aquilina 

Rubus 

Rubus 

Francoa ramosa 

Cytisus 

Genista 

Ruscus aculeatus 

Spartium junceum 

Streptosolen 

Brj'^onia 

Limnanthemum peltatum 

Aesculus 

Rhamnus 

Hippophae rhamnoides 

Cimicifuga . 

Ajuga 

Echium 

Magnolia grandiflora 

Acaena 

Dictamnus . 

Petasites 

Ranunculus. 

Schizanthus 

Asclepias tuberosa 

Juglans cinerea . 

Pinguicula . 

Kalmia lati folia . 

Calla palustris 

Medicago Echinus 

Lychnis 

Silene 

Agrostemma 

Tropaeolum aduncum 

Iberis 

Aethionema coridifolium 

Aethionema grandiflorum 

Aethionema 

Campanula Medium 

Aponogeton 

Dianthus Caryophyllus 

Galax aphylla 

Ricinus communis 

Silene 

Nepeta 

Antennaria . 

Cedrus 

Cryptomeria japonica 

Cedrela odorata . 

Chelidonium majus 

Stylophorum 



.69, 76 

7 
271 

361 

387 
388 
187 
140 
196 
390 
419 
427 

73 
260 

13 
371 
221 
no 

18 
162 
274 
5 
154 
328 

369 
404 

47 
239 
339 

240 

79 
282 
270 

413 
16 

447 
227 

14 
14 
14 

85 

37 

152 

192 

379 
413 

304 
34 
97 

134 
96 

103 

428 



480 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 



POPULAR NAME 



Centaury 

Century Plant 

Chalk Plant 

Chamomile 

Chamomile, Red 

Chamomile, Wild 

Cherry 

Cherry Cornelian 

Cherry Pie . 

Cherry, Winter 

Cherry, Winter 

Chestnut, Eating 

Chestnut, Golden-leaved 

Chestnut, Horse . 

Chestnut, Spanish 

Chickweed, Mouse Ear 

Chicory 

Chili Pine 

Chittam Wood 

Choke-berry 

Christ's Thorn 

Cinquefoil 

Clary . 

Cobnut 

Cockcomb 

Codlins and Cream 

Coffee Tree, Kentucky 

Columbine 

Comfrey 

Cone Flower 

Cone Flower, Purple 

Coral-berry . 

Coral Tree 

Cornel 

Cornflower 

Cornflower, Perennial 

Cotton Grass 

Cotton Thistle 

Cowslip, American 

Cowslip, Virginian. 

Crab Apple, American 

Crab, Siberian 

Cranberry, Common 

Creeping Jenny 

Cress, Indian 

Cress, Rock . 

Cress, Rock, Purple 

Cress, Violet 

Cress, Water 

Crimson Leaf 

Crocus, Chilian 

Crosswort 

Crowfoot, Common 

Cuckoo Pint 



BOTANICAL NAME 

Erythraea . 

Agave 

Gypsophila . 

Anthemis 

Adonis autumnalis 

Matricaria Chamomilla 

Prunus Avium 

Cornus mas 

Heliotropium 

Physalis 

Solanum capsicastrum 

Castanea sativa . 

Castanopsis chrysophylla 

Aesculus Hippocastanum 

Castanea 

Cerastium . 

Cichorium Intybus 

Araucaria . 

Rhus canadensis . 

Pyrus adenorachis 

Paliurus australis 

Potentilla . 

Salvia Horminum 

Corylus 

Celosia cristata . 

Epilobium hirsutum 

Gymnocladus canadensis 

Aquilegia 

Symphytum 

Rudbeckia . 

Echinacea . 

Symphoricarpus orbiculatus 

Erythrina . 

Cornus mas 

Centaurea Cyanus 

Centaurea montana 

Eriophorum 

Onopordon 

Dodecatheon 

Mertensia pulmonarioides 

Pyrus coronaria . 

Pyrus baccata 

Oxycoccus palustris 

Lysimachia 

Tropaeolum 

Arabis 

Aubrietia 

lonopsidium acaule 

Nasturtium . 

Shortia 

Tecophilaea 

Crucianella . 

Geranium pratensc 

Arum 



INDEX TO POPULAR NAMES 



481 



POPULAR NAME 



Cucumber Root, Indian 

Cucumber Tree 

Cupidone 

Currant, Flowering 

Currant, Indian 

Cypress 

Cypress, Deciduous 

Cypress, Summer 



Daffodil 

Daffodil, Winter 
Dahlia, Climbing 
Daisy . 

Daisy, Barberton 
Daisy, Blue . 
Daisy, Bush 
Daisy, False 
Daisy, Globe 
Daisy, Horse 
Daisy, Swan River 
Daisy, Transvaal 
Date Plum, Chinese 
Deodar 
Dewberry 
Dock . 
Dock, Great Water 
Dodder 
Dogwood 
Dragon Plant 
Dragon's Head 
Duck Foot . 
Duckweed 
Dutchman's Pipe 
Dyer's Greenwood 



Ebony 
Edelweiss 
Egg Plant . 
Elderberry . 
Everlasting Flower 
Everlasting, Pearly 
Everlasting, Winged 

Fair Maids of France 
False Indigo 
Feather Grass 
Fennel 
Fern, Beech 
Fern, Bladder 
Fern, Buckler 
Fern, Hard . 
Fern, Hart's Tongue 
Fern, Holly . 
Fern, Lady . 

2 F 



BOTANICAL NAME 






PAGE 


Medeola 


282 


Magnolia acuminata 


274 


Catananche 


94 


Kibes sanguineum 


378 


Symphoricarpus orbiculatus 


429 


Cupressus . 


135 


Taxodium distichum . 


433 


Kocliia tricophylla 


242 


Narcissus 


299 


Sternbergia lutea 


425 


Hidalgoa Wercklei 


219 


Bellis 


59 


Gerbera Jamesoni 


198 


Agathaea caelestis 


15 


Olearia 


310 


Bellium 


60 


Globularia . 


204 


Leucanthemum . 


no 


Brachycome iberidifolia 


70 


Gerbera Jamesoni 


198 


Diospyros Kaki . 


^57 


Cedrus Deodara . 


97 


Rubus Caesius 


388 


Rumex 


389 


Rumex hydrolapathum 


389 


Cuscuta 


136 


Cornus 


123 


Arum Dracunculus 


45 


Dracocephalum . 


160 


Podophyllum 


346 


Lemna 


252 


Aristolochia Sipho 


43 


Genista tinctoria 


196 


Diospyros Ebenum 


157 


Leontopodium 


252 


Solanum Melongena 


416 


Sambucus . 


394 


HeUchrysum 


214 


Anaphalis . 


29 


Ammobium 


28 


Ranunculus aconitifolius 


369 


Amorpha fruticosa 


28 


Stipa 


426 


Ferula 


183 


Polypodium Phegopteris 


349 


Cystopteris . 


140 


Aspidium 


48 


Blechnum Spicant 


66 


Scolopendrium 


406 


Aspidium lonchitis 


49 


Asplenium . 


49 



482 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 



POPULAR NAME 

Fern, Male . 

Fern, Oak 

Fern, Polypody 

Fern, Royal . 

Fern, Shield 

Fescue Grass 

Feverfew 

Fig 

Fig, Prickly . 

Figwort, Cape 

Filbert 

Fir, Douglas 

Fir, Silver 

Flag, Corn . 

Flag, Sweet . 

Flax . 

Flax, New Zealand 

Flea Bane 

Floss Flower 

Flower of Adonis 

Foam Flower 

Forget-me-not 

Forget-me-not, Chatham Island 

Foxglove 

Fraxinella 

Fringe Flower 

Fritillary 

Frog Bit 

Fumitory 

Fumitory 

Fumitory, Climbing 

Gardener's Garters 

Garland Flower 

Garlic, Golden 

Gentian 

Germander . 

Globe Flower 

Globe Thistle 

Glory of the Snow 

Goat's Beard 

Goat's Rue . 

Gold Dust 

Golden Bell . 

Golden Drop 

Golden Rod 

Gooseberry, Fuchsia-flowered 

Gorse, Spanish 

Gourd . 

Grass, Blue-eyed 

Grass, Broom 

Grass, Cloud 

Grass, Cock's-foot 

Grass, Fox-tail 



BOTANICAL NAME 



Nephrodium 

Polypodium Dryopteris 

Polypodium 

Osmunda 

Aspidiuni 

Festuca 

Parthenium . 

Ficus . 

Opuntia 

Phygelius capensis 

Corj'lus 

Pseudotsuga Douglasii 

Abies . 

Gladiolus 

Acorus 

Linum 

Phormium . 

Erigeron 

Ageratum . 

Adonis 

Tiarella 

Myosotis 

Myosotidium nobile 

Digitalis 

Dictamnus . 

Chionanthus 

Fritillaria 

Hydrocharis 

Corydalis 

Fumaria 

Adlumia cirrhosa 



Phalaris arundinacea variegat 

Daphne Cneorum 

Allium Moly 

Gentiana 

Teucrium 

TroUius 

Echinops 

Chionodoxa 

Astilbe 

Galega 

Alyssum 

Forsythia 

Onosma 

Solidago 

Ribes speciosum . 

Genista hispanica 

Cucurbita . 

Sisyrinchium angustifolium 

Bromus 

Agrostis 

Dactylis 

Alopecurus 



INDEX TO POPULAR NAMES 



483 



POPULAR NAME 



Grass, Goose 

Grass, Hair . 

Grass, Hare's Tail 

Grass, Love . 

Grass, Lyme 

Grass, Oat 

Grass of Parnassus 

Grass, Pampas 

Grass, Quaking 

Grass, Ribbon 

Grass, Soft . 

Grass, Spear 

Grass, Vernal 

Grass, Whitlow 

Grey Feather, Kansas 

Gromwell 

Groundsel 

Gum Tree, Sweet 

Harebell 
Hare's Ear . 
Haw, Scarlet 
Hawkweed . 
Hawthorn 
Hawthorn, Water 
Hazel . 
Heath . 
Heath, Irish 
Heath, St. Dabeoc 
Heath, Sea . 
Heath, Tree . 
Helleborine . 
Hemlock Spruce 
Hemp . 

Hemp Agrimony 
Hepatica, Common 
Herb Christopher 
Herb Paris . 
Hercules Club 
Heron's Bill 
Hickory 
Holly . 
Holly, Sea . 
Holly, Weeping 
Hollyhock 
Honesty 
Honey Flower 
Honeysuckle 
Honeysuckle, Bush 
Honeysuckle, French 
Hop . 
Hop Tree 
Horehound, White 
Hornbeam . 



BOTANICAL NAME 



Galium Aparine . 


194 


Aira . . . . . 


18 


Lagurus . . . . 


244 


Eragrostis . . . . 


167 


Elymus . . . . 


163 


Arrhenatherum . 


44 


Parnassia . . . . 


322 


Cortaderia . . . . 


124 


Briza . . . . . 


71 


Phalaris arundinacea variegat 


a 330 


Holcus . . . . 


221 


Agrostis . . . . 


17 


Anthoxanthum . 


35 


Draba . . . . 


159 


Liatris pycnostachya 


255 


Lithospermum 


264 


Senecio 


411 


Liquidambar 


263 


Campanula rotundifolia 


• 85 


Bupleurum . 


75 


Crataegus coccinea 


• 130 


Hieracium . 


220 


Crataegus Oxyacantha 


• 131 


Aponogeton 


• 37 


Corylus Avellana 


. 127 


Erica .... 


169 


Daboecia polifolia 


. 141 


Daboecia polifolia 


. 141 


Frankenia laevis . 


. 187 


Erica arborea 


170 


Epipactis 


. 166 


Tsuga 


• 448 


Cannabis sativa . 


• 87 


Eupatorium 


. 180 


Anemone Hepatica 


32 


Actaea 


10 


Paris 


• 321 


Aralia spinosa 


39 


Erodium 


• 173 


Carya 


90 


Ilex .... 


. 228 


Eryngium . 


• 173 


Ilex pendula 


229 


Althaea 


24 


Lunaria 


. 268 


Melianthus . 


. 282 


Lonicera 


267 


Diervilla (Weigela) 


• 154 


Hedysarum coronarium 


212 


Humulus 


223 


Ptelea trifoliata . 


360 


Marrubium . 


. 278 


Carpinus 


. 89 



484 



THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 



POPULAR NAME 

Horsetail 

Hound's Tongue . 

Hound's Tongue, Himalayan 

Houseleek 

Huntsman's Horn 

Hyacinth 

Hyacinth, Cape 

Hyacinth, Grape . 

Hyacinth, Missouri 

Hyacinth, Starch . 

Hyssop 

Ice Plant 

Immortelle 

Immortelle, Australian 

Indian Shot 

India-rubber Plant 

Iris, Tiger 

Ironwood 

Ivy 

Ivy, British Ground 

Ivy, Kenilworth 

Jacob's Ladder 
Jasmine 
Jasmine, Rock 
Jerusalem Cross . 
Jew's Mallow 
Job's Tears . 
Joseph's Coat 
Judas Tree . 
June-berry . 
Juniper 

Kerria, White-flowered 
King's Spear 
Knapweed 
Knot Grass . 

Labrador Tea 

Laburnum, Himalayan 

Lace Flower 

Lady's Mantle 

Lady's Slipper 

Lady's Tresses 

Larch . 

Larch, European . 

Larch, Golden 

Larkspur 

Laurel . 

Laurel, Alexandrian 

Laurel, Portugal . 

Lavender 



BOTANICAL NAME 



Equisetum 

Cynoglossum 

Lindelofia . 

Sempervivum 

Sarracenia . 

Hyacinthus 

Galtonia candicans 

Muscari 

Brodiaea 

Muscari racemosum 

Hyssopus officinalis 



Mesembryanthemum crystal- 

linum 
Helipterum 
Acroclinium 
Canna 

Ficus elastica 
Tigridia 

Ostrya virginica 
Hedera 

Nepeta Glechoma 
Linaria Cymbalaria 

Polemonium 
Jasminum . 
Androsace . 
Lychnis chalcedonica 
Kerria japonica . 
Coix lachryma 
Amarantus tricolor 
Cercis Siliquastrum 
Amelanchier canadensis 
Juniper us 



Rhodotypos kerrioides 
Asphodelus ramosus 
Centaurea . 
Polygonum . 

Ledum latifolium 

Piptanthus nepalensis 

Schizopetalon 

Alchemilla . 

Cypripedium 

Spiranthes . 

Larix . 

Larix europaea . 

Pseudolarix Fortunei 

Delpliinium 

Prunus Laurocerasus 

Danaea Laurus . 

Prunus lusitanica 

Lavandula . 



INDEX TO POPULAR NAMES 



485 



POPULAR NAME 



BOTANICAL NAME 



Lavender, Cotton . 






Santolina . . . . 


395 


Lavender, Sea 






Statice . . . . 


424 


Lead Plant . 






Amorpha canescens 


28 


Lead Wort . 






Plumbago . . . . 


344 


Leather Leaf 






Cassandra calyculata . 


91 


Leatherwood 






Cyrilla racemiflora 


140 


Leopard's Bane 






Doronicum . 


159 


Leopard Flower 






Pardanthus Chinensis . 


321 


Lettuce, Flowering 






Lactuca 


244 


Lilac . 






Syringa 


430 


Lilac, Californian . 






Ceanothus thyrsifiorus 


96 


Lily . 






Lilium 


257 


Lily, African 






Agapanthus 


14 


Lily, Arum . 






Richardia . 


379 


Lily, Belladonna . 






Amar^dlis Belladonna . 


26 


Lily, Corfu 






Funkia subcordata 


191 


Lily, Day 






Hemerocallis 


217 


Lily, Jacobean 






Sprekelia 


422 


Lily, Kaffir . 






Schizostylis 


405 


Lily, Mariposa 






Calochortus 


81 


Lily of the Field . 






Stembergia 


425 


Lily of the Valley 






Convallaria majalis 


. 120 


Lily of the Valley 






Maianthemum 


275 


Lily of the Valley Tree 






Clethra arborea . 


. 116 


Lily, Peruvian 






Alstroemeria 


23 


Lily Pink 






Aphyllanthes 


. 36 


Lily, Plantain 






Funkia 


191 


Lily, St. Bernard's 






Anthericum 


34 


Lily, St. Bruno's . 






Paradisia Liliastrum 


321 


Lily, Toad . 






Tricyrtis 


. 444 


Lily, Torch . 






Kniphofia . 


. 241 


Lily Tree 






Magnolia 


. 273 


Lily, Water . 






Nymphaea 


• 308 


Lily, Water, Yellow 






Nuphar 


• 307 


Lily, Wood . 






. Trillium 


. 444 


Lime . 






. TiUa .... 


• 440 


Locust Tree 






Gleditschia . 


204 


Loosestrife . 






Lysimachia 


. 272 


Loosestrife, Purple 






Lythrum 


• 273 


Loquat 






. Eriobotrya japonica 


. 172 


Love-in-a-Mist 






Nigella 


• 306 


Love-lies-Bleeding 






Amarantus . 


26 


Lungwort 






Pulmonaria 


362 


Lungwort, Smooth 






Mertensia . 


. 286 


Lupin . 






Lupinus 


269 


Lupin, Tree . 






Lupinus arboreus 


270 


Lyre Flower 






Dicentra 


• 153 


Madwort 






Alyssum 


25 


Maidenhair Fern . 






Adiantum . 


II 


Maidenhair Tree . 






Ginkgo biloba 


200 


Mallow 






Hibiscus 


219 


Mallow 






Lavatera 


250 


Mallow 






Malva 


276 



486 



THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 



POPULAR NAME 

Mallow, False 

Mallow, Greek 

Mallow, Indian 

Mallow, Poppy 

Mallow Tree. 

Mandrake 

Maple . 

Marguerite . 

Marguerite, Blue 

Marigold 

Marigold 

Marigold, Bur 

Marigold, Cape 

Marigold, Fig 

Marigold, Marsh 

Marjoram 

Marvel of Peru 

Mask Flower 

Master-wort 

May Flower 

Mayweed 

Meadow Grass 

Meadow Saffron 

Meadow Saffron, Spring 

Meadow Sweet 

Medlar. 

Mezereon 

Michaelmas Daisy 

Mignonette . 

Milfoil . 

Milk Weed . 

Milkwort, Sea 

Mimosa 

Mint . 

Mocassin Flower 

Money-wort 

Money-wort . 

Monkey Flov/er 

Monkey Puzzle 

Monkshood . 

Moon Wort . 

Morning Glory 

Moss, Club 

Mountain Ash 

Mountain Flower 

Mountain Sweet 

Mourning Widow 

Mulberry 

Mullein, Cretan 

Musk . 

Muskwood 

Myrtle 

Myrtle Bog . 

Myrtle, Sand 



BOTANICAL NAME 

Malvastrum 

Sidalcea 

Abutilon 

Callirhoe 

Lavatera arborea 

Mandragora 

Acer . 

Chrysanthemum frutescens 

Arctotis grandis . 

Calendula 

Tagetes 

Bidcns 

Dimorphotheca 

Mesembryanthemum 

Caltha 

Origanum . 

Mirabihs 

Alonsoa 

Astrantia 

Epigaea repens . 

Matricaria . 

Poa . 

Colchicum . 

Bulbocodium vernum 

Spiraea Ulmaria 

Pyrus Mespilus . 

Daphne Mezereum 

Aster . 

Reseda 

Achillea 

Asclepias 

Glaux maritima 

Acacia 

Mentha 

Cypripedium 

Lysimachia nummularic 

Sibthorpia . 

Mimulus 

Araucaria . 

Aconitum 

Botrychium 

Ipomoea 

Lycopodium 

Pyrus Aucuparia 

Stenanthium 

Ceanothus . 

Geranium phaeum 

Moms 

Celsia cretica 

Mimulus 

Olearia argophylla 

Myrtus 

Myrica Gale 

Leiophyllum buxifolium 



INDEX TO POPULAR NAMES 



487 



POPULAR 


NAME 


BOTANICAL NAME 




Myrtle, Wax .... Myrica cerifera . 


PAGE 

298 


Nasturtium Tropaeolum 


446 


Navelwort 




Omphalodes 


311 


Nettle, Chili 




Loasa lateritia 


265 


Nettle, Dead. 




Lamium . . . . 


245 


Nettle, Indian 




Lantana . . . . 


245 


Nightshade, Deadly 




Atropa . . . . 


52 


Nut .... 




Corylus . . . . 


126 


Oak . 




Quercus . . . . 


1^7 


Old Man's Beard . 




. Clematis Vitalba . 


113 


Olive .... 




. Olea 


309 


Orange Flower, Mexican 




Choisya ternata . 


105 


Orange, Mock 




Philadelphus 


330 


Orange, Osage 




Madura aurantiaca 


273 


Orchis, Bee . 




Ophrys apifera 


312 


Orchis, British Frog 




Habenaria viridis 


208 


Orchis, Butterfly . 




Habenaria bifolia 


208 


Orchis, Green Man 




Aceras anthropophora . 


8 


Orchis, Humble Bee 




Ophyrs bombilifera 


• 313 


Orchis, March 




Orchis latifolia 


• 313 


Orchis, Musk 






Herminium 


. 218 


Orphine, The 






Sedum Telephium 


■ 409 


Orris Root . 






Iris Florentina 


■ 314 


Oso Berry 






Nuttallia cerasiformis . 


• 307 


Oswego Tea 






Monarda didyma 


292 


Ox-eye 






Buphthalmum 


• 75 


Ox-eye 






Leucanthemum . 


no 


Oyster Plant, Spanish 




Scolymus hispanicus 


• 407 


Paeony 




Paeonia 


. 318 


Paeony Tree 






Paeonia Moutan 


• 319 


Palm, Chusan 






Trachycarpus 


• 442 


Parsley Fern 






Allosorus crispus 


20 


Parsnip, Cow 






Heracleum 


. 217 


Partridge Berry 






Gaultheria procumbens 


• 195 


Partridge Berry 






. Mitchella 


■ ^91 


Pas que Flower 






Anemone Pulsatilla 


33 


Passion Flower 






Passiflora 


• 323 


Pea, Perennial 






Lathyrus 


■ 247 


Pea, Sweet 






Lathyrus 


• 247 


Peach 






Prunus Amygdalus 


■ 357 


Peach . 






Prunus Persica . 


• 357 


Pear . 






Pyrus 


■ 364 


Pearlwort 






Sagina 


■ 390 


Pennyroyal . 






Mentha Pulegium 


. 284 


Peppermint . 






Mentha piperita . 


. 284 


Persimmon . 






Diospyros . 


. 156 


Pheasant's Eye 






Adonis 


12 


Picotee 






Dianthus 


. 150 


Pimpernel 






Anagallis 


29 


Pine . 






Pinus .... 


• 340 


Pine, Adventure B 


ay 




Phyllocladus rhomboidalis 


• 335 



488 



THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 



POPULAR NAME 

Pine, Norfolk Island 

Pine, Umbrella 

Pink . 

Pink Barren Beauty 

Pink, Cushion 

Pink, Moss . 

Pink, North American Fire 

Pink, Sea 

Pitcher Plant, Calif ornian 

Plane . 

Plane, Corstorphine 

Plantain, Rattlesnake 

Plantain, Water 

Plum . 

Plum, Cherry 

Poke Weed . 

Pomegranate 

Poplar 

Poppy . 

Poppy . 

Poppy, Californian 

Poppy, Horned 

Poppy, Nepaul 

Poppy, Plume 

Poppy, Prickly 

Poppy, Tree 

Poppy, Welsh 

Poppy Wort, Chinese 

Primrose 

Primrose, Evening 

Prince's Feather 

Privet . 

Prophet Flower 

Purslane 

Purslane, Rock 

Ragwort 

Rampion 

Raspberry, Wild 

Red-hot Poker 

Redwood 

Reed, Giant . 

Rest Harrow 

Resurrection Plant 

Rhubarb 

Rock Rose 

Rocket 

Rockfoil 

Rockspray 

Rose 

Rose, Christmas 

Rose, Cliffe . 

Rose, Lenten 

Rose of Heaven 



BOTANICAL NAME 



Araucaria excelsa 

Sciadopitys verticillata 

Dianthus 

Pyxidanthera barbulata 

Armaria maritima 

Phlox subulata 

Silene virginica . 

Armaria 

Darlingtonia 

Platanus 

Acer flavo-marginatum 

Goodyera Menziesii 

Alisma 

Prunus 

Prunus cerasifera 

I'hytolacca decandra 

Punica Granatum 

Populus 

Papaver 

Platystemon californicus 

Eschscholtzia 

Glaucium 

Meconopsis nepalensis 

Bocconia 

Argemone . 

Romneya Coulteri 

Meconopsis cambrica 

Eomecon chionantha 

Primula 

Oenothera . 

Amarantus hypochond 

Ligustrum . 

Arnebia 

Portulaca 

Calandrinia 

Senecio 

Phyteuma . 

Rubus Idaeus 

Kniphofia . 

Sequoia sempervirens 

Arundo 

Ononis 

Anastatica . 

Rheum 

Cistus 

Hesperis matronalis 

Saxifrage 

Cotoneaster 

Rosa . 

Helleborus niger . 

Armcria maritima 

Helleborus orientaUs 

Agrostemma caeli-rosa 



INDEX TO POPULAR NAMES 



489 



POPULAR NAME 


BOTANICAL NAME 




Rose of Heaven . . . . 


Lychnis Coeli-rosa 


PAGK 

271 


Rose of Jericho . 


Anastatica . . . . 


29 


Rose, Sun . . . . . 


Helianthemum 


212 


Rosemary . . . . . 


Rosmarinus officinalis . 


^86 


Rowan .... 


Pyrus Aucuparia 


366 


Rue 


Ruta 


390 


Rue, Meadow 


Thalictrum . 


436 


Rush 


J uncus 


239 


Rush, Club .... 


Scirpus 


406 


Rush, Flowering . 


Butomus umbellatus . 


76 


Sage 


Salvia 


393 


Sage, Wood .... 


Teucrium Scorodonia 


436 


Salsafy .... 


Tragopogon pratensis . 


443 


Salt Tree .... 


Halimodendron argenteum 


209 


Sandwort .... 


Arenaria 


42 


Satin Flower 


Sisyrinchium 


414 


Satin Flower, New Zealand . 


Libertia 


255 


Savin, Common 


Juniperus Sabina 


240 


Scabious .... 


Scabiosa 


403 


Scabious, Sheep's Bit . 


Jasione 


237 


Seakale .... 


Grambe maritima 


129 


Sedge ..... 


Carex 


. 88 


Sedge, Myrtle 


Acorus 


9 


Self Heal .... 


. Prunella 


. 356 


Service-berry 


Amelanchier canadensis 


27 


Service Tree 


Pyrus Sorbus 


366 


Shallon .... 


Gaultheria Shallon 


. 194 


Shamrock .... 


OxaUs Acetosella. 


316 


Shamrock, Blue- flowered 


Parochetus communis 


322 


Sheep Laurel 


Kalmia angustifoUa 


240 


Shooting Stars 


Dodecatheon 


158 


Silver Bell .... 


Halesia tetrapetra 


208 


Siris, Pink .... 


Albizzia Julibrissin 


19 


Skull Cap .... 


Scutellaria . 


407 


Slipper Wort 


Calceolaria 


78 


Sloe 


Prunus spinosa flore pleno 


358 


Snake Plant 


Arum Dracunculus 


45 


Snapdragon .... 


Antirrhinum 


35 


Sneeze Wort 


Helenium 


212 


Sneezewort, Double 


Achillea Ptarmica 


8 


Snow in Summer 


Cerastium tomentosum 


lOI 


Snowberry .... 


Symphoricarpus racemosus 


429 


Snowdrop .... 


Galanthus . 


192 


Snowdrop Tree 


Halesia 


208 


Snowflake .... 


Leucojum . 


253 


Snowy Mespilus . 


Amelanchier 


27 


Soapwort .... 


Saponaria . 


395 


Solomon's Seal 


Polygonatum 


347 


Sorrel Tree . . . . . 


Oxydendron arboreum 


317 


Sourwood .... 


Oxydendron arboreum 


317 


Southernwood 


Artemisia Abrotanum . 


45 


Sowbread .... 


Cyclamen . 


137 


Spearmint .... 


Mentha viridis 


284 



490 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 



POPULAR NAME 



Spider-wort . 
Spinach, Mountain 
Spleenwort . 
Spring Beauty 
Spruce 
Spurge. 
Squill . 
Squill, Striped 
St. John's Wort 
Star Flower, Spring 
Star of Bethlehem 
Starwort 
Starwort, False 
Stock . 

Stock, Virginian 
Stokes' Aster 
Stonecrop 
Strawberry . 
Strawberry Tree 
Succory 
Sumach 
Sunflower 
Sunflower, Orange 
Supple Jack 
Swallow Wort 
Swamp Bay 
Sweet Cicely 
Sweet Gale . 
Sweet William 
Sycamore 

Tamarisk 

Tarragon 

Tassel Flower 

Tea Tree 

Teasel . 

Thistle 

Thistle, Blessed 

Thistle, Fish-Bone 

Thistle, Golden 

Thistle, Horse 

Thistle, Sow 

Thorn . 

Thorn Apple 

Thrift 

Thrift, Prickly 

Thyme 

Thyme, Cat's 

Tickseed 

Toadflax 

Tobacco 

Toon Tree 

Toothwort 

Traveller's Joy 



BOTANICAL NAME 

Tradescantia 

Atriplex hortensis 

Asplenium 

Claytonia 

Picea . 

Euphorbia 

Scilla . 

Puschkinia scilloides 

Hypericum 

Triteleia uniflora 

Ornithogalum umbellatum 

Aster . 

Boltonia 

Matthiola 

Malcolmia 

Stokesia 

Sedum 

Fragaria 

Arbutus Unedo . 

Cichorium Intybus 

Rhus 

Helianthus 

Heliopsis 

Berchemia volubilis 

Asclepias 

Magnolia glanca 

Myrrhis 

Myrica Gale 

Dianthus barbatus 

Acer Pseudo-platanus 

Tamarix 

Artemisia dracunculoid 

Emilia coccinea . 

Lycium Chinense 

Dipsacus 

Carduus 

Carbenia benedicta 

Chamaepeuce 

Scolymus 

Cnicus 

Sonchus 

Crataegus . 

Datura 

Armaria 

Acantholimon 

Thymus 

Teucrium Marum 

Coreopsis 

Linaria 

Nicotiana 

Cedrela Toona 

Lathraea 

Clematis Vitalba . 



INDEX TO POPULAR NAMES 



491 



POPULAR NAME 



Treasure Flower 
Tree of Heaven 
Tree Poppy . 
Trefoil, Moon 
Trumpet Flower 
Trumpet Flower 
Tulip 

Tulip, Butterfly 
Tulip Tree . 
Twin Flower 

Umbrella Tree 

Valerian 

Venus' Looking Glass 
Verbena, Lemon-scented 
Verbena, Sand 
Verbena, Scented . 
Vetch, Horseshoe 
Vetch, Kidney 
Vetch, Spring 
Vine, Cross . 
Vine, Madeira 
Violet, Adder's 
Violet, Dame's 
Violet, Dog's Tooth 
Violets, Water 

Wake Robin 

Wall Pepper 

Wallflower 

Wallflower, Fairy . 

Walnut 

Water Leaf . 

Water Soldier 

Wattle 

Wedding Flower . 

Whitehorn 

Willow 

Willow Herb 

Windflower . 

Wineberry . 

Winter Sweet 

Wintergreen 

Wintergreen, Creeping 

Witch Hazel 

Woad 

Wolf's-bane 

Wonder Berry 

Wood Sorrel 

Woodbine, Common 

Woodruff 

Wormwood . 

Woundwort . 



BOTANICAL NAME 






FAGS 


Gazania . . , . 


195 


Ailanthus glandulosa . 


17 


Dendromecon 


148 


Medicago arborea 


282 


Incarvillea . 


230 


Tecoma 


434 


Tulipa 


448 


Calochortus 


81 


Liriodendron tulipifera 


3 


Linnaea 


262 


Magnolia tripetala 


'275 


Centranthus 


100 


Specularia . 


420 


Aloysia citriodora 


22 


Abronia 


2 


Lippia citriodora 


263 


Hippocrepis 


221 


Anthyllis . 


35 


Orobus vernus 


314 


Bignonia capreolata 


65 


Boussingaultia baselloides 


69 


Goodyera pubescens 


205 


Hesperis matronalis 


218 


Erythronium 


175 


Hottonia palustris 


222 


Trillium grandiflorum . 


444 


Sedum acre 


408 


Cheiranthus 


103 


Erysimum . 


173 


Juglans 


238 


Hydrophyllum 


226 


Stratiotes . 


426 


Acacia 


4 


Moraea Robinsonia 


• 293 


Crataegus Oxyacantha 


• 131 


Salix .... 


• 391 


Epilobium . 


• 165 


Anemone 


31 


Rubus phoenicolasius . 


. 388 


Chimonanthus fragrans 


104 


Pyrola 


• 363 


Gaultheria procumbens 


• 195 


Hamamelis . 


209 


Isatis 


• 236 


Aconitum . 


9 


Solanum nigrum . 


. 416 


Oxalis 


. 316 


Lonicera Periclymenum 


. 267 


Asperula 


47 


Artemisia . 


45 


Stachys 


. 422 



492 THE BOOK OF HARDY FLOWERS 



POPULAR NAME 



Yam . 

Yarrow 

Yellow Wood 

Yew, Common 

Yew, Plum-fruited 

Yew, Prince Albert's 

Yulan 



BOTANICAL NAME 






PACE 


Dioscorea 


156 


Achillea 


8 


Cladrastis . 


112 


Taxus baccata 


434 


Prumnopitj-s elegans 


355 


Saxegothea conspicua . 


397 


Magnolia conspicua 


274 



Zebra Wood 



Diosp^Tos Kurzii 



157 



Printed by Cassell & Company, Limited, La Belle Sauvace, Loudon, E C. 

F.2oa.i5 



